SHIMADZU BIOTECH MARKS FIRST ANNIVERSARY
WITH TWO MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENTS

Announcing the Xcise™, an integrated gel-excision processor, and a deal to develop a high throughput DNA sequencer

March 18, 2002. Two major announcements mark Shimadzu Biotech's first anniversary today; the launch later in the Spring of the new Xcise™, an integrated gel-excision processor for proteomics, and a partnership with Network Biosystems (GenoMEMS), a start-up company with technology licensed from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, to develop a new DNA sequencer using proprietary microfabrication technology.

The Xcise™ is destined to play a crucial part in drug discovery by allowing rapid and accurate analysis of differential protein expression. Smart software optimizes sample processing and delivery to the mass spectrometer, providing opportunities for unparalleled throughput in proteomics laboratories. Gel imaging, protein spot cutting and digestion, peptide extraction and deposition are combined onto a MALDI target in an integrated benchtop instrument. The Xcise's™ high resolution images and absolute intensity values will make gel comparison and analysis easy. The Xcise™ is the result of collaboration between Shimadzu Biotech Japan and Australia's Proteome Systems Limited (PSL).

To meet the need for high throughput DNA analysis, Shimadzu Biotech plans to launch an ultra fast, automated DNA sequencer using a proprietary form of microfabrication technology, MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems). The new sequencer will analyze DNA ten times faster than conventional capillary sequencers and reduce running costs by more than 90%. Its launch is planned for the first quarter of 2003. Shimadzu Biotech is working with Network Biosystems (GenoMEMS), a Boston based start-up with technology licensed from the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research at MIT to fast track development, manufacturing and distribution of the sequencer.

According to Dr Ichikawa, Chairman of Shimadzu Biotech, "Collaboration is vital if we are to continue providing strong solutions in proteomics and genomics. This partnership with Network Biosystems (GenoMEMS) means we can apply microfabrication technology to significantly accelerate the progress of biotechnology research."

Shimadzu Biotech is confident of significant growth in the year ahead, building on our first year where sales revenue topped US$42M. Revenue is projected to increase up to US$167M by 2004 (year ending March 31, 2005). We will invest US$60M in research and development by 2004 (year ending March 31, 2005).

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Notes to Editors

About Shimadzu Biotech:
Shimadzu Biotech, is a business unit of Shimadzu Corporation and its headquarters are in Japan. It has been created to unite a strong solutions-based offering and accelerate the progress of biotechnology research and development. Shimadzu Biotech captures, within one dedicated organization, the best expertise and technology from within Shimadzu Corporation and its subsidiary, Kratos Analytical (part of Shimadzu Biotech).

About Proteome Systems Ltd
Proteome Systems Ltd is based in Sydney, Australia and is dedicated to developing integrated proteomics technologies that speed drug discovery. Proteome Systems develops its own instruments, consumables and informatics technologies as well as creating strategic partnerships with leading technology companies. Proteome Systems is a leading innovator in the development of a high throughput proteomics platform.

About Network Biosystems (GenoMEMS)
Network Biosystems (GenoMEMS) is a Boston-based start-up with technology licensed from the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. This new company is developing a new DNA sequencer and SNP analysis instrumentation with its unique MEMS technology.

For more information, please contact:

Shimadzu Biotech
Tetsuo Ichikawa, Chairman
Tel: 81-75-823-1148
Fax: 81-75-823-1364
email: tichi@shimadzu.co.jp

Chris Sutton, Business Manager
Fax: +44 (0)161 888 4402 ext 228
Tel: +44 (0)161 888 4400
email: chris.sutton@kratos.co.uk
Website: http://www.shimadzu-biotech.net

For press information, please contact:

HCC De Facto Group plc
Jacqui Dyson, Account Manager
Tel: +44 (0)20 7496 3300
Fax: +44 (0)20 7496 3355
email: j.dyson@hccdefacto.com