GATC Biotech and Integrated Genomics Announce Distribution Contract and Strategic Partnership

CHICAGO, IL and Konstanz, Germany - January 26, 2004

GATC Biotech AG, a leading provider of molecular biological services, and Integrated Genomics Inc. , a leading microbial genomics company, announced the closure of a multi year contract for the distribution of Integrated Genomics ERGO™ bioinformatics suite of curated microbial and eukaryotic genomes in Europe. In addition, GATC Biotech and Integrated Genomics will combine their market presentation in terms of sequencing and bioinformatics projects. Financial terms were not disclosed.

"The combination of our 14 years of experience in the field of genome analysis with Integrated Genomics unique collection of curated genomes, pathways, and metabolic reconstructions is a great chance for customers in Europe. This partnership creates the first supplier in Europe that offers state-of-the-art genomic sequencing, genome analysis and annotation service under oneroof." said Peter Pohl, Chief Executive Officer at GATC Biotech.

"GATC Biotech is one of the premier sequencing centers in Europe and an experienced distributor of bioinformatic software solutions. Their high throughput and high quality service offerings and experience as distributor make them the ideal European partner for Integrated Genomics' bioinformatics and genome analysis capabilities. Our combined resources will provide a single platform for complete sequencing and bioinformatics services. The team at Integrated Genomics welcomes working with GATC's team in this field of high-throughput biology." said Roelf Datema, Chief Executive Officer at Integrated Genomics.