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25 September 2001 - 21:00
Genencor Signs Licensing Agreement with Integrated Genomics for Microbial Genome Sequencing TechnologiesGenencor International, Inc. (NASDAQ:GCOR) and Integrated Genomics today announced the signing of a licensing agreement for three microbial genome sequencing technologies. As part of the agreement, Genencor will have access to Integrated Genomics’ Aspergillus niger genome sequence data, the ERGO™ bioinformatics suite and Genome Explorer™--a tool for analyzing regulatory pathways. With these technologies, Genencor expects to continue to improve efficiencies in fungal cell factories for commercial applications in both its bioproducts and health care businesses. “Over the years, we have invested significantly in our functional genomics platform and we believe that the A. niger genome sequence specifically will accelerate the pace of enzyme discovery and production,” said Michael V. Arbige, senior vice president of technology for Genencor. “The sequence data and the blueprint of metabolism will lead us to design cell factories from a whole-system perspective for both our bioproducts and health care projects. We believe that Integrated Genomics’ systems will continue to add value and advance our proprietary technology position in this area.” Recently, Integrated Genomics became the first to determine the DNA sequence of A.niger, containing more than 34 million base pairs and estimated to encode 50 percent more genes than the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The fungus, A.niger, is known for its efficient conversion of simple molecules into complex biochemicals. Using its proprietary bioinformatics suite, ERGO, Integrated Genomics has organized the genes and functions of A. niger into metabolic networks. This “metabolic reconstruction” provides a blueprint of the significant biochemical pathways required to produce proteins and biochemicals in fermentations. “Integrated Genomics is pleased that Genencor finds our technology valuable,” said Michael Fonstein, CEO of Integrated Genomics. “The sequence data and the metabolic networks of A. niger are invaluable sources of information for the development of a wide array of commercial applications. Any company with this information should have a definite competitive edge.” About Integrated Genomics Integrated Genomics, Inc., based in Chicago, Illinois, offers a systematic approach to solving genomic problems by using pioneering methods of high-throughput sequencing, comparative analysis of genomes, functional reconstruction, and metabolic modeling. Integrated Genomics' analytical bioinformatics suite, ERGO™, is comprised of over 300 genomes making it the largest biochemical database on the market. Integrated Genomics is particularly strong in genome sequencing, annotation, and analytical chemistry. Globally, the company is ranked in the top ten in genome analysis and functional reconstruction with an aim to address problems in strain development, crop protection, and drug discovery. About Genencor Genencor International is a diversified biotechnology company that develops and delivers innovative products and services into the health care, agriculture, industrial and consumer markets. Using an integrated set of technology platforms, Genencor’s products deliver innovative and sustainable solutions to many of the problems of everyday life. Genencor was established in 1982 as a joint venture between Genentech Inc. and Corning Incorporated. Since its founding, Genencor has grown to become a leading biotechnology company, with over $315 million in year 2000 annual revenues, more than 250 biotechnology products in commerce, and over 3,400 owned and licensed patents and applications. Genencor, with more than 1,500 employees worldwide, has principal offices in Palo Alto, California; Rochester, New York; and Leiden, the Netherlands. ### Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters discussed in this press release may contain forward-looking statements which involve risks and uncertainties, including significant fluctuations in product performance depending on factors such as a dependence on the efforts of third parties, new and uncertain technology employed by Genencor and its uncertain application to new business ventures, failure to develop products for the health care markets, inability to complete certain transactions and realize anticipated benefits from acquisitions, dependence on intellectual property rights, the competitive nature of Genencor’s industry and risks of obsolescence of certain technology. Actual results may differ materially from those projected. Forward-looking statements represent the judgment of Genencor as of the date of this press release. Genencor disclaims, however, any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statements.
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