Osmetech successfully exhibits new molecular diagnostics products at major trade shows
in North America & Europe for launch in the first half of 2006

Osmetech plc is an international healthcare diagnostics group with two divisions: Molecular Diagnostics and Critical Care, based on the OPTI range of blood gas and electrolyte analysis products.

Osmetech plc has successfully exhibited three new molecular diagnostics products at two major trade exhibitions AMP (Association for Molecular Pathology) 10-13 November in Scottsdale, Arizona in the US and at Medica, Europe’s largest medical industry show in Düsseldorf, Germany, 16-19 November.

Molecular Diagnostics
Osmetech’s molecular diagnostic division is focused on providing practical, cost effective molecular diagnostic technologies and tools that enable a broader range of hospitals and laboratories to offer molecular diagnostic services for improved patient care.

OPTI GENE: The OPTI GENE is a product aimed at simple molecular tests such Thrombosis, STD’s, MRSA and Avian Flu in the near point of care market. The OPTI GENE system uses proven, well accepted PCR technology and has a touch screen interface with the ability to independently thermo cycle all tubes in a random access three cartridge format. It uses a closed tube format to reduce potential contamination and is highly cost effective with lower cost plastic consumables. The OPTI GENE is due for commercial launch in the first half of 2006.

OPTI TUBE: The OPTI TUBE product line consists of plastic tubes and ergonomically designed sealing caps and carousel for use in the Roche LightCycler as a replacement for the Roche glass capillaries, sealing cap and carousel. OPTI TUBE is a robust alternative solution that eliminates the dangers of glass breakage and minimizes the risk of laboratory personnel exposure to potentially dangerous samples and glass shards. The OPTI TUBE is due for commercial launch in the first half of 2006.

eSensor: The eSensor product is aimed at more complex molecular tests which can detect mutations in the genes related to cystic fibrosis and  the Cytochrome P450 genes. Combining universal platform design and a patented advanced electrochemical detection technology, the eSensor System can detect and identify many different targets at once.

Each eSensor DNA Detection System cartridge can detect several different DNA targets at once, providing a cost-effective platform for complex analysis. The eSensor is due for commercial launch in the first half of 2006.
James White, Chief Executive, Osmetech plc said,

‘We are delighted by the positive reaction that all three of Osmetech Molecular Diagnostics’ new products have received at these two prestigious shows. The distinct market positioning of both the OPTI GENE and eSensor instruments clearly address the critical customer requirements of this rapidly growing market. We remain on track to launch all of these new products in the first half of 2006.

‘Our Critical Care Division’s new products, the OPTI LION electrolyte analyzer and the OPTI R blood gas analyzer with multi-use consumable were again well received at the Medica meeting.

‘We are delighted that our strategy of acquiring non-core assets from large companies has given the group a number of significant revenue growth drivers for 2006 and beyond.’

Ends

For further information:
Osmetech plc:     James White or David Sandilands     020 7849 6027           
Madano Partnership:     Matthew Moth     020 7378 703