The Whole Genome Profiling (WGP) method enables the de novo construction of
a complete high quality physical map. This sequence-based physical map forms
the framework to construct a complete genome sequence assembly of plant and
animal genomes in a fast and cost-effective manner.

The automated and robotized BAC pooling strategies of Amplicon Express
combined with KeyGene's next generation sequencing strategies and dedicated
software tools, made it possible to generate a high resolution assembly of
the 450 Mbp melon genome.

At the 16th annual Plant and Animal Genome conferences held in San Diego,
USA from January 10 through January 14, 2009, KeyGene and Amplicon Express
will announce this new method.

"Combining the expertise and innovative capacity of both Amplicon Express
and KeyGene provide Life Sciences researchers a new and exciting method for
fast and high quality genome assembly and sequencing that will boost genome
and gene function research considerably" says Arjen van Tunen, CEO of
KeyGene. "Both KeyGene and Amplicon Express are committed to roll out this
novel proprietary method in a fast and broad way."

"Fast genome sequencing and assembly provides big opportunities for the seed
and Ag Biotech industry. This assists them in developing innovative,
genetically improved crop varieties that have superior traits providing
benefits for the consumers, retailers and producers' states Michiel van
Eijk, vice president Upstream Research of KeyGene and responsible for the
development of the new method. 'Until now having fast access to complete
genome sequences was not always possible because of the high investments and
time consuming procedures involved. With our new method we offer a solution
for complete genome assembly. KeyGene and Amplicon Express can offer this
now using their proprietary state of the art BAC pooling, High Throughput
Sequencing and Bioinformatics platforms."

"KeyGene and Amplicon Express will combine marketing/sales forces and
technical support teams dedicated to offering Whole Genome Profiling as a
service" says Robert Bogden, CEO of Amplicon Express. Our collaboration will
ensure a fast, world wide distribution of the WGP method"
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