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Open Biosystems Signs Northwestern University to
Open Access RNAi Program

Program Provides Affordable, Institution-Wide Access to Whole Genome shRNAmir Libraries

HHUNTSVILLE, Ala.—March 8, 2006—Open Biosystems, Inc., focused on the commercialization of leading-edge life science research tools for drug discovery, today announced that Northwestern University has joined its Open Access RNAi Program. By participating in this program, Northwestern’s community of 270 participating research labs gain access to the most advanced RNAi technology through Open Biosystems’ whole-genome lentiviral shRNAmir libraries.

Reinforcing Open Biosystems’ commitment to expanding access to research reagents for the life sciences community, the Open Access RNAi Program offers access to RNAi technologies without imposing heavy financial burdens on individual investigators. With this unique technology access model, program participants receive continual updates as extensions of the libraries and upgrades of the technology are released. The Open Access RNAi Program also provides priority technical support including site visits and dedicated customer service. In addition, Open Biosystems provides Northwestern University with maintenance and quality control of the shRNAmir libraries, allowing investigators to focus on advancing their research.

“Our biomedical research scientists need access to the most up-to-date RNAi resources available to maintain the pace and quality of research as well as create leading edge investigative studies that are a hallmark of our scientific community,”  said Teresa Woodruff, director of the Basic Science Programs of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University. “Open Biosystems’ shRNAmir lentiviral libraries and the Open Access RNAi Program allow the Northwestern research community to utilize the most advanced shRNA technology for RNAi-based studies, share ideas and concepts for high throughput screening, and develop new technologies that will result in significant breakthroughs in biomedical research.  Our investigators can perform whole genome screens at a fraction of the cost compared to the purchase of the libraries as individuals.  In a time of diminishing NIH funding, the Northwestern University model is to invest in opportunities that will serve the entire community and support excellence in discovery and research.  Open Biosystems’ Open Access RNAi Program makes possible this kind of institutional commitment.”

The Open Access RNAi Program at Northwestern includes shRNAmir lentiviral libraries targeting the entire human and mouse genomes with multiple constructs per gene. shRNAmir design is based on major advances in the understanding of natural RNAi pathways and is shown to produce more specific and highly effective RNAi. This leading-edge whole-genome resource enables all researchers at Northwestern University to target any gene in the human or mouse genome with improved gene knockdown efficiency and effectiveness.

“We believe deeply in the power of science to improve lives and RNAi-related research holds huge potential to drive the advancement of disease-related diagnosis and treatment options,” said Brian Pollock, chief executive officer and co-founder of Open Biosystems. “Our Open Access RNAi Program enables the research community to aggressively push science forward and uncover new potential.”

Additional information about Open Biosystems’ Open Access RNAi Program can be found online at: www.openbiosystems.com/OpenAccessRNAi.

About RNAi
RNAi is a mechanism cells use to naturally regulate gene expression. It is being increasingly harnessed as a tool to identify and understand genes that function in the disease process, especially in cancer research. Open Biosystems is the leading provider of mammalian RNAi resources and its RNAi portfolio includes leading-edge technology incorporating advances in shRNA design and captured in whole genome microRNA-adapted shRNA (shRNAmir) libraries.  Open Biosystems’ shRNAmir libraries are proven to provide greater gene knockdown and fewer off-target effects than other RNAi systems.

About Open Biosystems
Open Biosystems, Inc. develops, manufactures and markets genomic research tools to scientists and researchers in corporate, academic and government laboratories. These research tools provide investigators with standardized high-quality genes, RNAi and antibodies for interrogating gene function in relation to oncology, neuroscience and metabolic disorders. Founded in 2001, Open Biosystems is headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama. For more information and details for ordering, please visit www.openbiosystems.com.
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