SOURCE: DNAPrint Genomics, Inc.
December 15, 2006 07:00 ET
DNAPrint Genomics Launches Personal, Confidential DNA Storage Service
New Offering Complements DNA Testing Products and Is Seen as Aiding Health Diagnostics and Investigations or as a Holiday Gift
SARASOTA, FL -- (MARKET WIRE) -- December 15, 2006 -- DNAPrint Genomics, Inc. (OTCBB: DNAG) today
announced the launch of its personal DNA Storage Service, designed to
complement the Company's comprehensive line of genetic ancestry products
and to ensure the confidentiality of personal DNA data for future testing
or personal use.
"We offer this service because everyone should establish genetic profiles
for themselves and their children," stated DNAPrint Genomics President and
Chief Executive Officer Richard Gabriel. "The Company's line of DNA
ancestry products, such as AncestryByDNA™ and EuroDNA™, can be used
in this way and to explore family heritage at the same time. DNA testing
may also be used to predict individual sensitivities or side effects to
certain drugs. Moreover, with the current backlog of cases at various
investigative agencies, we feel that establishing a sample file with
DNAPrint could help speed up the process of finding anyone -- especially
children -- who may go missing. For these reasons among many, we would
certainly encourage individuals to have their DNA tested at the same time
that it is stored."
The basic DNA storage plan is available at an initial cost of $39.00 and is
renewed annually. The Company also offers fully paid storage at a discount
for 5-year increments. An STRmap analysis service is also offered for those
wanting their DNA to be typed at 16 genetic markers that may be used for
human identity in addition to storage. The Company's AncestryByDNA™ and
EuroDNA™ products are available separately and can be used to trace
genetic heritage among the four anthropological groups: Native American;
East Asian; Sub-Saharan African (areas south of the Sahara Desert);
Indo-European (Europe, Middle East, North Africa, Western Asia).
"We also appreciate that this is the time of year when people are looking
for unusual and unique gift ideas," Mr. Gabriel said. "This service, in
conjunction with DNAPrint's complete line of genetic history products,
would certainly qualify as a special gift, providing a great opportunity to
share a new understanding of one's family tree and help strengthen the
bonds between generations."
"DNA is very stable when stored under the proper conditions and DNAPrint is
an expert in this area," said Anthony Frudakis, Ph.D., Chief Scientific
Officer and founder of DNAPrint. "There have been many requests from the
general public about storing DNA, so the Company has put together a
retrieval and storage package that is painless and doesn't involve the use
of blood. Storing DNA can be important to couples and families who may
want to have their DNA evaluated and have the results reported back to
them."
DNA is retrieved using the DNAPrint Genomics, Inc. non-invasive collection
product, which in the past has been used to safely collect more than 26,000
samples. Samples are taken from cheek cells using a swab and instructions
that come with each kit. The DNA is stored in a moisture-free environment
with a quality assurance monitoring program. DNA storage under dry
conditions is the key to long lasting DNA. Experts note that microbes,
fungi and other organisms do not survive without moisture, so a dry, cool
environment significantly lengthens the DNA storage life. Of course, the
person submitting the sample retains ownership.
DNAPrint Genomics, Inc. is a premier testing laboratory offering the only
autosomal test for Bio-Geographical Ancestry called AncestryByDNA™. The
forensic version of this test, DNAWitness™ 2.5, has been used in over
150 cases to date. This experience in the forensic field, as well as work
with ancient DNA samples, has developed a level of knowledge and skill that
will benefit the DNA storage program. In addition to the AncestryByDNA™
and DNAWitness™ test, DNAPrint offers mitochondrial, Y-chromosome, and
paternity testing. The DNA storage program and its upgrade will allow
customers to take advantage of DNAPrint's present and future services and
products as they become available. DNA storage assists families, couples
and individuals in preserving their DNA as the age of DNA testing advances.
"DNA technology is advancing so rapidly that it's almost impossible to
predict what the next ten to twenty years will hold," stated Mr. Gabriel.
"Storing an individual's DNA may open up a world of options in specialized
medicine for those that have preserved their DNA. When new tests come out,
if the person is interested, we can screen their DNA rapidly and provide
them with new information on their potential response to drugs or to the
progression of disease. All of our services are compliant with HIPPA and
we maintain the strictest confidentiality."
To order the new services, call customer service at 941-366-3400, extension
230.
About DNAPrint Genomics, Inc.
DNAPrint Genomics, Inc. (www.dnaprint.com) is a developer of genomics-based
products and services in two primary markets: biomedical and forensics.
DNAPrint Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary, develops
diagnostic tests and theranostic products (drug/test combinations) using
the Company's proprietary ancestry-informed genetic marker studies combined
with proprietary computational modeling technology. Computational Biology
and Pharmacogenomics services are also offered externally to
biopharmaceutical companies. The Company's first theranostic product is
PT-401, a "Super EPO" (erythropoietin) dimer protein drug for treatment of
anemia in renal dialysis patients (with end stage renal disease).
Preclinical and clinical development of all the Company's drug candidates
will benefit from simulated pre-trials to design actual trials better and
are targeted to patients with genetic profiles indicating their propensity
to have the best clinical responses. DNAPrint is proud of its continued
dedication to developing and supplying new technological advances in law
enforcement and consumer ancestry heritage interests. Please refer to
www.dnaprint.com for information on law enforcement and consumer
applications which include DNAWITNESS™, RETINOME™, ANCESTRYbyDNA™
and EURO-DNA™. DNAWitness-Y and DNAWitness-Mito are two tests offered by
the Company. The results from these tests may be used as identification
tools when a DNA sample is deteriorated or compromised or other DNA testing
fails to yield acceptable results.
Forward-Looking Statements
All statements in this press release that are not historical are
forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to risks and
uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from
those projected, including, but not limited to, uncertainties relating to
technologies, product development, manufacturing, market acceptance, cost
and pricing of DNAPrint's products, dependence on collaborations and
partners, regulatory approvals, competition, intellectual property of
others, and patent protection and litigation. DNAPrint Genomics, Inc.
expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking, except as may be
required by applicable law or regulation to release publicly any updates or
revisions to any
forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in
DNAPrint's expectations with regard thereto or any change in events,
conditions, or circumstances on which any such statements are based.