Esoterix Expands Molecular Diagnostics Testing Capability

AUSTIN, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Dec. 2, 2003–Esoterix, a leading laboratory services company, today announced the completion of a new molecular diagnostic testing center, and the introduction of two new molecular diagnostics testing products, HCVExact(TM) and CFDetx(TM).

New Molecular Diagnostic Testing Center in California

Esoterix has completed the development of a new, state-of-the-art molecular diagnostic testing center in their Calabasas Hills, CA facility. As a result, Esoterix will now offer a broad range of molecular based diagnostic assays at the company’s main West Coast laboratory. This molecular facility will create expanded testing capabilities for Esoterix and will also deliver improvements in assay performance, sample handling, and turnaround times.

Introducing New Hepatitis C Assay – HCVExact

Esoterix has launched HCVExact, a highly sensitive assay that measures the virus level in hepatitis C patients. This assay provides physicians with a superior tool to assess the severity of the disease and to monitor therapy. HCVExact, utilizing the TaqMan(TM) Real Time-PCR based methodology, will offer the broadest dynamic range in the industry. With Esoterix’s rapid turnaround time and serial reporting format, physicians using HCVExact can deliver improved patient care and better assess response to treatment.

Introducing CFDetx For Cystic Fibrosis Carrier Screening or Diagnosis

Esoterix has launched CFDetx, a mutation analysis for cystic fibrosis carrier screening or diagnosis. Cystic fibrosis is one of the most common terminal autosomal-recessive disorders in the Caucasian population. It is now recommended that couples who are pregnant, or considering pregnancy, should be screened for this disease. Esoterix’s CFDetx provides a comprehensive analysis of common cystic fibrosis mutations, including the 25 mutations recommended by both the American College of Medical Genetics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

James A. McClintic, president and chief executive officer, stated, “We have experienced tremendous growth in our molecular testing business over the past few years. Our new West Coast molecular laboratory, combined with new testing capabilities in the rapidly growing hepatitis C and cystic fibrosis markets, will position Esoterix for continued substantial molecular testing growth. We are excited to be at the forefront of molecular diagnostics and plan to continue to invest in this growth area.”

Esoterix is a leading laboratory services company focused on high science, superior customer service, and innovative new products. With annual revenues in excess of $100 million and over 750 employees, Esoterix offers approximately 2,500 assays and profiles through its centers of excellence in the United States and Western Europe. Esoterix’s extensive client base includes hospitals, physicians, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, reference laboratories, and managed care organizations.

For more information on Esoterix, please visit http://www.esoterix.com.