Basel, 2002/10/30

Genedata AG, a pioneer in developing innovative computational solutions for genomics research, today announced the release of PathoLead, the first solution in the bioinformatics industry tailored to meet the particular needs of modern, genomics-based anti-infectives research. Designed specifically to support the entire antibiotic discovery process, PathoLead integrates genome, expression and phenotype data. The solution's development was driven by successful, long-term relationships with key partners in the anti-infectious research and development industry.

"Genedata has recognized the highly specialized requirements in the different branches of life science industries" said Genedata's CEO Othmar Pfannes, "Although most scientists are increasingly using genome sequences as the coordinate system for their genomics-driven research, pharmaceutical, agro-biological, biotech and chemical companies diverge dramatically in their research focus. Genedata responds to this development with the release of a series of tailor-made editions of its established enterprise system, Genedata Phylosopher."

The PathoLead solution is designed as a unique computational platform for the identification of druggable targets and development of target-based and cell-based assays. Tools to identify genetic regulatory elements that govern a pathogen's antibiotics stress response facilitate the design of pathway-specific reporter assays suitable for high-throughput screening. Furthermore, it enables the automated mechanism-of-action characterization of novel small-molecule inhibitors based on signature mRNA profiles. The integrated inhibitor database supports the systematic biological characterization and storage of proprietary drug development candidates and their respective target classes.

Based on Genedata Phylosopher 4.0, the PathoLead solution enables the concurrent analysis of hundreds of genomes, including the human genome, and all major bacterial, fungal and viral pathogens. It contains professionally annotated genome data enhanced by integrated experimental phenotype, metabolic and regulatory pathway information. The PathoLead solution also features a comprehensive set of modules for saving and sharing analysis results of department-wide interest, various tools for project and data version management, as well as user-tracking capabilities.