AuRx, Inc. For Release February 2, 2004

AuRx is pleased to announce publication of the evaluation of its diagnostic technology for the determination of the presence of infection with HSV2.

The AuRx technology is a rapid serologic assay that is based on type specific epitopes within the large subunit of HSV ribonucleotide reductase. This assay provides a reliable method for detecting serotype specific antibody to a protein other than gG-2. The Ig isotype of the R1 antibody recognized in this assay is primarily IgG3, which is also distinct from the bulk of the gG-2 response. The assay demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity as determined by direct comparison to western blot. Its use, in conjunction with the gG-2 based assays should improve the sensitivity and specificity of serologic diagnosis and aid in patient management.

The assay will be especially useful in the future for providing a positive diagnosis for the involvement of HSV2 in genital herpes prior to treatment with the AuRx recombinant therapy. Herpes infections in the genital area may be caused by either HSV1 or HSV2, however, HSV2 infections are far more common and more problematic as they usually result in a greater number of recurrences each year. A rapid diagnostic test which could be performed in the physicians office with the same accuracy as the Western Blot assay would reduce the time before treatment with an effective therapy could begin.

AuRx, Inc., is a privately held company based near Baltimore, Maryland.