Release issued 17th November 2002

New Manufacturing Agreement Signed

The Centre for Applied Microbiology & Research (CAMR) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a major new manufacturing agreement with the Italian pharmaceutical company Alfa Wassermann.

AW has devised a proprietary process for the manufacture of a cytokine, which plays an important role in a range of cellular regulatory and communication pathways. The ability of cytokines to effect anti-inflammatory cascades and immune regulatory functions is well recognised and there is a significant market for such molecules.

By forming the partnership, the two organisations are committed to the development of the process in order to manufacture the product for market. CAMR's abilities lie in its experience with process development, scale-up and ability to manufacture a range of biological molecules to the required regulatory standards.

Following an initial programme of technology transfer and process development, CAMR will manufacture product for pre- clinical studies and consistency batches to support an application for marketing authorisation from the EMEA. If successful, the parties will enter into a further contract to manufacture product for market.

Commenting on the deal Stefano Golinelli Alfa Wassermann's CEO said "we are happy to join forces with a reputable organisation like CAMR. We are confident that this important project will also contribute to strengthen AW's presence in Europe."

Ross Cameron CAMR's Business Manager responsible for the programme said "This project is worth more than ª1million and will see CAMR applying its considerable experience and expertise in the manufacture of biopharmaceuticals to translate the innovative process developed by AW into a commercial scale manufacturing process".

Alfa Wassermann is a privately owned Italian pharmaceutical company based in Bologna with over 50 years presence in both the prescription medicine and OTC markets. Throughout the years Alfa Wassermann has updated its structure focusing on specific fields and/or developing collaborations with European and American companies. Research is focused on important therapeutic areas including immunology, gastroenterology and the thrombolytic disease.

CAMR is a Special Health Authority of the United Kingdom Department of Health that is internationally recognised as a centre of excellence in emerging pathogens and exotic infectious diseases. CAMR focuses on the research, development and manufacture of highly purified biopharmaceutical products, vaccines (including the UK's Anthrax vaccine) and other biologically active compounds.

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