Bergen, Norway – 19 November 2006: NorDiag ASA of Norway has entered into an agreement with Manipal AcuNova Ltd. in India for marketing and distribution of NorDiag’s new GeneOpsy test to detect genetic mutations in biopsy tissue. The introduction of GeneOpsy is complimentary to the Genefec test for faecal analysis, which allows for early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) using a similar technology.

The new GeneOpsy test will provide gastrointestinal specialists with the significant advantage of improved understanding of the causes underlying the presence of polyps or early cancer. GeneOpsy (genetic biopsy) detects the presence of mutations in two key genes – ki-ras and p53 – and will over time include other key genetic markers known to play an important role in the onset of various cancers, including CRC.

“GeneOpsy will permit the clinician to know that their patient has developed cancer associated with certain mutations, and this will allow timely follow up with the non-invasive Genefec test. The advantage to the patient is future reassurance against CRC recurrence through ongoing non-invasive monitoring. The benefit to the clinician is that this gives them the opportunity to provide excellent patient management with two cutting-edge diagnostic tests, one for mutational detection in biopsy tissue and another for follow-up through faecal testing. It’s a win-win situation”, says Christian Horn, CEO of NorDiag.

NorDiag will also explore the market opportunity for GeneOpsy in its current European markets.

According to the agreement in India, the samples collected through Manipal AcuNova will be shipped for analysis at NorDiag’s laboratory in Bergen, with results being electronically transmitted back to Manipal AcuNova. However, the establishment of a regional testing centre will be considered as volumes increase. Earlier this year, Manipal AcuNova received its ISO 9001:2000 certification and has recently been NABL (ISO 15189) accredited.

“We offer esoteric, high-end tests in India, which provide additional insight to physicians managing disease. Early disease detection and early diagnosis lowers the cost of treatment, which is a key goal that we pursue in cancer diagnosis. NorDiag has achieved clinical acceptance in the international marketplace with Genefec. Now we collaborate on the introduction of the GeneOpsy test in India. We endeavour to bring new cancer diagnostic tests to market with innovation and speed”, says DA Prasanna, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Manipal AcuNova.

The venture was set up by NorDiag’s Indian partner PAC Med Biotech Pvt. Ltd., which specialises in establishing partnerships between foreign and Indian companies for the introduction of high-end pharmaceutical and diagnostic products in India.

“Segments of the Indian population are increasingly demanding access to the very best and latest developments in cutting-edge health care products and services. The introduction of GeneOpsy adds significantly to the utility of the Genefec test and brings a new era in high-end diagnostic testing and management of colorectal cancer”, says Amala Charan Chaudhuri, PhD, President & CEO of PAC Med.

For further information, please see www.nordiag.no or contact;
CEO Christian Horn in NorDiag ASA, tel: +47 9016 3153

About NorDiag ASA
NorDiag is a biotechnology company focusing on early diagnosis of cancer. The company’s first product is Genefec for genetic diagnosis of colorectal cancer. The Genefec assay is a non-invasive test using faecal samples as specimen. The test is highly specific, easy to automate and currently used and reimbursed as a diagnostic assay in Scandinavia. The company also has R&D programmes for new technologies and products within colorectal cancer, lung cancer and pancreatic cancer. NorDiag is listed on Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker NORD.

About Manipal AcuNova
Manipal AcuNoca is a collaborative venture between the Manipal Education and Medical Group and AcuNova (P) Ltd, committed to bring new diagnostics, drug therapies and devices to market with innovation and speed, and building an ethical research institution valued by clients, researchers and the community. Please also see www.acunovalife.com About Manipal Group The Manipal Group is worldwide renowned for its pioneering work in education and healthcare spanning the last five decades. Its Healthcare Division runs 11 hospitals with 1,250 doctors and 4,250 beds, 7 government associate hospitals with 2,565 beds, 7 rural health centres and 14 Medical Colleges with over 9,000 students and 275 faculty staff in India. With a total of 19 research sites, Manipal is the largest academic medical centre, treating 1,5 million patients with 1,500 physicians. Please also see www.manipalgroup.com

About PAC Med
PAC Med is an Indian company specialized in developing strategic alliances between foreign and Indian companies in the life sciences and health care sectors. PAC Med provides a multitude of services, including manufacturing, marketing, sales, distribution, clinical research and regulatory and legal services. Its geographical focus is on South Asia and the Indian subcontinent. Please also see www.pacmed.ca