“MicroRNA-adapted” RNAi Libraries from Open Biosystems Cover the Entire Mouse Genome

(September 13, 2005) – Open Biosystems, Inc. announced today completed coverage of the mouse genome with RNAi triggers adapted with microRNA sequences (shRNAmir). The industry's first vector-based whole genome RNAi resource for mouse provides increased gene silencing with greater specificity. The mouse RNAi offering comes on the heels of the human whole genome shRNAmir library and further extends Open Biosystems' portfolio of Expression Arrest™ products. The shRNAmir libraries will greatly simplify validation of gene function, probing interactions between genes, and establishment of animal models.

Leading cancer centers worldwide are already using the Expression Arrest shRNAmir human and mouse libraries to accelerate the development of disease treatment through genetic research. Due to their advanced design based on endogenous RNAi processing, the shRNAmir triggers are unique in their ability to produce effective and highly specific gene silencing. Scientists can now overcome the limitations of transient-only expression inherent in siRNA triggers by using the Expression Arrest shRNAmir to perform transient, stable, and in vivo RNAi. Additional features include the ability to use viral particles to effectively deliver into difficult-to-transfect cell lines routinely used in biomedical research.

Troy Moore, Chief Technology Officer at Open Biosystems, said, “The microRNA-adapted shRNA libraries represent state-of-the-art RNAi triggers that will revolutionize the production of mouse models allowing rapid assessment of in vivo gene function.”

The Expression Arrest shRNAmir mouse library was developed in collaboration with Greg Hannon (CSHL) and Steve Elledge (Harvard). The library targets over 28,000 mouse genes with multiple shRNAmir constructs per gene and is also available as arrays of biologically important gene families and pathways.

Open Biosystems develops, manufactures and markets genomic research tools to scientists in academic, government and industrial laboratories. These research tools provide investigators with standardized high-quality genes, RNAi and antibodies for interrogating gene function in relation to oncology, neuroscience and metabolic disorders.

For more information, visit Open Biosystems' website: http://www.openbiosystems.com or contact:

Troy Moore, Chief Technology Officer

ph: 256-704-4848

Email: tm@openbiosystems.com