PRESS RELEASE: January 27, 2000

AVIAN SEXING DNA TEST

Avecon Diagnostics, Inc. has signed an agreement with AMR Laboratories, Inc. of Plymouth Meeting, PA for the distribution of a DNA-based test for AVIAN SEXING.

Bird sexing has previously been performed surgically using a general anesthesia, with the potential risk of patient trauma and/or death. Surgery also involves the need for a veterinarian, and errors in sex determination due to the youth of the bird or seasonal changes in organs are common.

The Avian Sexing DNA Test uses the technique of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to determine the sex of a bird from a single drop of blood. In this process, the chromosome pattern is determined from the bird’s DNA which is collected and extracted from the blood of the subject. The test determines with 99% accuracy whether the bird is a male (ZZ chromosome pattern) or female (ZW chromosome pattern).

With the Avian Sexing DNA Test, sampling can be done at any age and at any time of year without risk of false identification. All species of birds can be sexed from only a single drop of blood with virtually no risk to the patient. There are no messy blood tubes to deal with; one drop of blood from a clipped toenail is simply spotted onto the collection card and placed in the plastic bag provided with the kit. Samples are returned for testing in the enclosed self-addressed envelope.

Results are available within 72 hours of specimen receipt and may be reported by mail, fax, e-mail or telephone at the client’s behest. The test kit also includes a form for Visa, Mastercard, Discover Card and American Express payment, or payment may be arranged via wire transfer, check or invoice.

Contact Avecon Diagnostics, Inc. for more information and to order kits.