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[6/3/2008] WELLESLEY, Mass. (June 3, 2008) – Xceed Molecular, a pioneer in the development of cost-effective, easy-to-use
gene-expression analysis systems, has granted Gen-Probe Incorporated (Nasdaq: GPRO) and its affiliates a non-exclusive license to use Xceed's novel Flow-Thru Chip
technology. Gen-Probe expects to incorporate the Xceed technology into its next-generation multiplexed molecular-diagnostics products. Gen-Probe is a global leader
in the development, manufacture, and marketing of rapid, accurate, and cost-effective nucleic acid testing products for diagnosing human diseases and screening
donated human blood.
Under the terms of the agreement, Gen-Probe will pay up-front licensing and milestone fees to Xceed for non-exclusive access to Xceed's Flow-Thru Chip technology
in specific fields. Gen-Probe also has the right to obtain co-exclusive rights (with Xceed) in pre-defined sub-fields. In addition to continuing royalty payments,
the agreement provides that Xceed will supply Gen-Probe with Xceed’s custom TipChips, its Ziplex® automated gene-expression system, and other Xceed products.
Additional terms were not disclosed.
"The Flow-Thru Chip technology is well suited for diagnostic tests and we are pleased to have a market leader like Gen-Probe recognize its value for inclusion in
their multiplexing strategy," said Xceed President and CEO, David Deems. "Multiplex molecular diagnostics is a burgeoning market, and new tools are required as the
era of 'personalized medicine' becomes a reality. Simplicity, reproducibility, costeffectiveness, and minimal interaction time for lab personnel will be key to
the routine adoption of molecular diagnostics in the clinical lab. The Flow-Thru Chip and Ziplex System will make this possible."
Gen-Probe's Executive Vice President and Chief Scientist, Dan Kacian, Ph.D., M.D., commented, "There are many promising applications for moderate-density arrays in
clinical diagnostics and other applications, and we believe that Xceed’s technologies in combination with our own technologies will facilitate our entry into
these expanding markets."
Unlike two-dimensional arrays, Xceed's unique 3D Flow-Thru Chip design enables active transport of targets to probes. The chip is made of porous silicon with channels
that extend from the upper to the lower surface of the chip. Molecular interactions occur within the three-dimensional matrix of these channels as target solutions
pass through. This approach facilitates specific interactions between target molecules and immobilized probes, resulting in hybridization times that are three- to
four-times faster than conventional methods.
Xceed's vision is to advance molecular diagnostics by successfully translating novel multiplex tests into routine clinical practice and to create robust diagnostic
solutions to improve disease outcomes. Our products comprise the Ziplex® System for automated gene-expression analysis (available in the US and Canada for
research use only), gene expression services, and pre-configured arrays. Xceed is also developing multiplexed genomic tests for the Ziplex platform, both internally
and with strategic partners. Xceed’s R&D and manufacturing are headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, with executive offices in Wellesley, Massachusetts.
Media: Caroline Grossman • 781.771.5579
caroline.grossman@gmail.com
Company: Susan Josey • 972.317.8948
sjosey@xceedmolecular.com
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