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PRODUCTS IN DEVELOPMENT

GeneMedix is developing its current portfolio of therapeutic proteins and is adding to its range of products via collaborations with partners.

Erythropoietin [EPO]

EPO is used to treat severe anaemia [low red blood cell count], associated with chronic renal failure and in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. It is estimated that some 90% of kidney dialysis patients and 60% of patients receiving chemotherapy will develop anaemia. EPO is also indicated for the treatment of anaemia in HIV patients being treated with zidovudine, and, prior to planned operations, as a way of reducing the need for blood transfusions during surgery.

It is estimated that the global market for EPO is currently worth $8 billion, being dominated by Amgen and its licensee Johnson and Johnson. A new enhanced protein, darbepoetin alfa, has been launched by Amgen and it has taken some market share, but the overall market for EPO is expanding year on year.

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor [G-CSF]

G-CSF is used mainly for the treatment of chemotherapy induced neutropenia, and acts by stimulating neutrophil production. The market for G-CSF is estimated to be worth $2.2 billion worldwide, with Amgen being the major player. Amgen has developed a sustained release version of the protein filgrastim, which has been approved for use in the US and Europe. It remains to be seen how this product will impact on the marketplace.

Interferon alfa [IFN-alfa]

IFN-alfa is used in the treatment of hepatitis C and hepatitis B, both alone and in combination with oral antiviral agents. The market for IFN-alfa is estimated to be worth approximately $1.7 billion worldwide, and is growing due to the increased prevalence of both diseases and concerted efforts to improve diagnosis and treatment rates.

Other Proteins

Through its long term agreement with IBCB, GeneMedix also has rights to cell lines for interferon gamma [IFN-gamma], Interleukin-2 [IL-2], and Epidermal Growth Factor [EGF], and the Company is looking to in-license interferon beta [IFN-beta] in 2006 from one of our existing partners.