[BobbyB]

News:
Ballerup, Denmark, November 28, 2006

NsGene’s proprietary neurotrophic factor, NsG33, will be evaluated by Genzyme for the treatment of motor neuron diseases


Today NsGene announced that an option agreement on NsG33, a novel neurotrophic protein, has been executed with Genzyme Corporation. Under this Option Agreement, Genzyme has been granted the exclusive right to evaluate NsG33 for the treatment of motor neuron diseases such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease).

NsG33 is a potential therapeutic factor with protective and regenerative effects in the central and peripheral nervous systems and was discovered in the NsGene Factor Discovery Program. In this program, NsGene is using cutting edge bioinformatics in combination with rapid functional validation to discover and patent novel genes and proteins with therapeutic effects for neurological disorders. Factors found in this effort can be used in combination with NsGene’s EC biodelivery platform or developed as protein therapeutics with partners. Other novel genes from this program include Neublastin, which is under development by Biogen Idec as a therapeutic for neuropathic pain, under a license agreement with NsGene.

EVP & COO Lars U. Wahlberg said: "We are very pleased with this option agreement on NsG33. Genzyme has the expertise and track record needed to realize the potential of NsG33 as a novel therapeutic for the treatment of motor neuron diseases. We believe that NsG33 is a very promising factor with great potential and this agreement affirms the value of our gene discovery efforts".

For further information please contact:
Dr. Lars U. Wahlberg, EVP & COO
Telephone: +45 4460 8913; Fax: +45 4460 8989
E-mail: luw@nsgene.dk
Website: www.nsgene.com

Background
NsGene A/S is a privately held Danish biotechnology company founded in December 1999. NsGene develops novel cell and gene based products for the treatment of neurological diseases. The development focus is on EC biodelivery technology products to treat Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. The research focus is on the discovery of novel genes relevant for the treatment of neurological disorders.

Motor neuron diseases (MNDs) are a group of progressive neurological disorders that destroy motor neurons, the cells that control essential voluntary muscle activity such as speaking, walking, breathing, and swallowing. MNDs may be inherited or acquired.
http://www.nsgene.dk/index_news.htm