Dept. of Commerce: Gov. Doyle Announces Funding for Further Expansion of Eragen Biosciences, Inc Product Development Capabilities

Contact:
Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608/267-9661

MADISON – Gov. Jim Doyle today announced the EraGen Biosciences, Inc.,
Madison, Dane county, will receive a $250,000 Technology Development Loan
(TDL) program to upgrade its manufacturing facility, creating 75 jobs and
retaining 31 jobs.

“Through my Grow Wisconsin plan, we are working hard to invest in our
economy and help technology companies upgrade and innovate,” Governor Doyle
said. “I am pleased that the state can help EraGen Biosciences, Inc. invest
in its business and remain at the forefront of genetic testing technology.”

“We are off to a great start in 2005 and have a number of exciting business
opportunities in progress which I anticipate will put us in a powerful
position in the molecular diagnostics market in 2006.” said Dr. Irene
Hrusovsky, President and CEO of EraGen Biosciences. “Our continued work
with Wisconsin diagnostics leaders broadens our product portfolio in both
genetic and infectious disease testing. An innovative test was developed at
The Blood Center of Southeastern Wisconsin, in collaboration with the
research and development team at EraGen for a new comprehensive platelet
antigen test. Projects are also underway at the University of Wisconsin to
include a test for multiple respiratory viruses. These collaborations, in
addition with the recently announced agreement with Bayer Healthcare,
enhance our reputation for developing fast and effective molecular
diagnostic products. The support from Governor Doyle and the Department of
Commerce has made a significant contribution to growing our business both in
the State and globally.”

EraGen Biosciences, Inc. develops and markets nucleic acid diagnostic
technologies. The company is investing $1.0 million to upgrade its
manufacturing capacity to produce its CF assay under good manufacturing
practices.

Based in Madison, EraGen Biosciences, Inc. is driving innovative molecular
diagnostics and drugs to market faster. The company develops and
commercializes high performance automated molecular diagnostics and drug
discovery products to serve the rapidly growing market for personalized
medicine and rapid response needs for bioterrorism. Further information is
available at www.eragen.com, or 608-662-9000.

The TDL program assists Wisconsin businesses that have developed
technological innovations and have the potential to provide significant
economic benefit to the state. This program is designed to assist the
business in bringing the new technology to commercialization.

For more information about the Technology Development Loan (TDL) program,
contact John Stricker, Department of Commerce (Commerce), at 608/261-7710.