Microtest Announces Deal to Manufacture New Antisoma Drug AS1411 at Expanded Agawam, Mass. Facility

AGAWAM, MASS. – March 26, 2007 - Microtest, a Massachusetts-based contract manufacturing and testing laboratory, today signed a deal with UK-based biopharmaceutical company Antisoma to immediately begin the aseptic manufacturing of AS1411, a new drug being developed for the treatment of various cancers.

Under the terms of the agreement, Microtest will be responsible for the formulation and aseptic fill/finish of AS1411 Phase II clinical trial material supply for forthcoming phase II trials. In addition, Microtest will be responsible for stability testing of the AS1411 product.

“AS1411 is the first aptamer to be tested in cancer clinical trials. After successfully completing phase I trials, we are now advancing to phase II trials in renal cancer and AML. We are pleased to be supported in this work by expert specialist collaborators such as Microtest.” said Glyn Edwards, Antisoma’s CEO.

“This agreement provides a strategic opportunity for us at Microtest to form a strong working partnership with an important category leader like Antisoma,” said Steve Richter, Microtest’s president. “Our flexibility, skills, and manufacturing expertise seamlessly compliment Antisoma’s scientific strength and clinical trial plans.”

Based in London, UK, Antisoma is a biopharmaceutical company that develops novel products for the treatment of cancer. Antisoma fills its development pipeline by acquiring promising new product candidates from internationally recognized academic or cancer research institutions. Its core activity is the preclinical and clinical development of these drug candidates. For more information, visit www.antisoma.com.
Microtest recently expanded their pharmaceutical testing services and fill/finish contract manufacturing capabilities with a $7.5 million investment. The expansion included a new state-of-the-art pharmaceutical testing laboratory facilities and new aseptic fill/finish manufacturing facilities.

Microtest is a leader in testing services and contract manufacturing for the medical device, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology industries. Based in Agawam, Massachusetts,
USA, the company's expertise and flexible processes enhance product safety and security, accelerate time to market, and minimize supply chain disruption. For more information, visit www.microtestlabs.com or call 1-413-786-1680 or toll-free 1-800-631-1680.