GeneLink BioSciences, Inc. Announces the Filing of a 2nd U.S. Patent Application for a Proprietary Test for Oxidative Stress Genes
May 8, 2001

MARGATE, NJ - (Business Wire) - May 8, 2001 - GeneLink BioSciences, Inc. (OTCBB:GNLK), The World's First Family Centered DNA Bank and Hereditary Genetic Information Service, today announced that it has filed a second patent application through the Philadelphia law firm of the international law firm of Akin, Gump, Struass, Hauer & Feld. L.L.P., for its new proprietary test for the assessment of oxidative stress (OS) genes to be used to genetically predict an individual's risk for skin aging. 

"We now realize that our new OS gene test (Patent Pending) has a significant application in the skincare industry," say's John R DePhillipo, Chairman and CEO of GeneLink. "The use of antioxidant genetic information is a superior strategy and a remarkable tool to combat skin aging. It can help individuals improve their skin condition and achieve younger looking skin."

Currently, when a person sees wrinkles or lines, they begin to apply a variety of products and creams that contain antioxidants such as retinoids. This approach is only partially effective because it typically begins only after the signs of aging have appeared. A much better strategy is to predict the aging of the skin and initiate a therapy that is designed to match the individual's genetic pattern and genetic risk for skin aging. Individuals with moderate or high risk for oxidative stress could be encouraged to initiate a therapy much earlier - even before outward signs of skin aging. Furthermore, the degree of oxidative stress detected in an individual can suggest a 'strength' or type of skin cosmetic that may be advisable for that individual.

Specifically, this new OS gene test (Patent Pending) is designed to measure single-nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPSs (pronounced "snips"), which are small variations in DNA. The test looks for SNPSs in several key OS genes that are associated with a variety of medical conditions associated with oxidative stress. The OS test provides a score that can be used as a guide to determine what level of vitamin, nutrient, or skin therapy is helpful to combat oxidative stress.

An attractive feature of this test is the easy and non-invasive method by which the samples are collected using the patented GeneLink DNA Collection Kit®. Simply, the DNA material is collected by rubbing the inside of the mouth with swabs, which are then mailed to the testing laboratory. The samples are kept strictly confidential by bar coding. GeneLink has the only patented non-invasive DNA collection system in use today. 

"The Company is extremely excited to enter into the both the skin care and nutritional markets with our genetic assessment system for oxidative stress. This breakthrough can assist companies in developing the latest antioxidant interventions for their customers." Adds John DePhillipo, "We have received an overwhelming response from major skin care and nutritional companies for distribution of this new product. Simultaneously we are communicating with national and international laboratories to service the need this new product will demand. It is our belief that revenues from this product will begin by September 1st of this year."

Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which provides a new "safe harbor" for these types of statements.

SOURCE: GeneLink BioSciences, Inc.