AFFX Affymetrix, Inc.

Affymetrix Inc. (NASDAQ:AFFX) today announces the GeneTitan� System, the only complete platform to automate customer workflow from target preparation through array processing and data analysis, which maximizes data reproducibility, user productivity and throughput scalability. The first application, whole-genome expression profiling, benefits from the new, flexible 24- and 96-array plate format with whole-genome content on a single array and the new HT 3� IVT Express Assay, which uses a streamlined protocol and less starting material. Traditional microarray formats require a labor-intensive, manual handling process, and the only way to increase throughput is to add manpower, which results in higher costs and higher data variability. With the GeneTitan System, researchers can harness hands-free automation to minimize labor costs and improve data consistency. This allows users to focus on analyzing data rather than laboratory bench work. Researchers can now take a whole-genome approach to expression profiling and smoothly scale up to process large numbers of samples. Additional plate-format applications will be available on the GeneTitan System in the future. "The new Affymetrix array plates offer a scalable solution using some of the industry�s most widely cited gene expression array content," said Shawn Levy, Ph.D., assistant professor of biomedical informatics and director of the Vanderbilt Microarray Shared Resource. "The GeneTitan System�s 24- and 96-array plate formats and the new automated array processing capabilities enable us to scale from low- to high-throughput projects more efficiently than before, with minimal user intervention.� �Affymetrix has set a new standard in the whole-genome expression market with the launch of the GeneTitan System and by making the content found in the industry�s most popular gene expression tools available in more scalable plate formats,� said Kevin King, president of Affymetrix. �We expect customers to adopt this new smaller, higher-density and more flexible array format and automated platform over the next year, opening the door to many more genomic breakthroughs.� Complete Microarray Processing Solution The GeneTitan System is built on the same content featured in GeneChip� cartridges, the industry standard in microarray research for the past decade.�The complete platform includes new automated instrumentation, proven array content, optimized assays and reagents as well as open software architecture. The GeneTitan System includes: GeneChip� HT PM Array Plates�comprehensive coverage of the transcribed human, mouse and rat genomes, in a convenient configuration that enables researchers to interrogate either 24 or 96 distinct samples per plate. Each of the arrays in the new plates offers the same whole-genome content as the previous two-plate set. GeneChip� HT 3� IVT Express Assay�optimized target preparation kit for gene expression studies which is easier to use and requires less starting sample material than previous assays, enabling researchers to generate high-quality gene expression results faster and more cost effectively than before. GeneChip� Array Station�automated target preparation solution which allows one person to prepare the same number of targets as four people could accomplish manually. GeneTitan Instrument�only fully integrated instrument which provides hands-free automation of array processing from hybridization to data analysis, empowering users to focus on different experimental studies for a better understanding of biological systems. Affymetrix� GeneChip� Command Console� and Expression Console� software�scalable data management options for medium- and high-throughput projects with a convenient file-based format for data storage. The software easily integrates with laboratory information management systems to increase laboratory efficiency and productivity. For more information on the GeneTitan System, please visit: http://www.affymetrix.com/genetitan About Affymetrix Affymetrix GeneChip� microarray technology is the industry-standard tool for analyzing complex genetic information. After inventing microarray technology in the late 1980s, Affymetrix scientists have been dedicated to developing innovative products that provide researchers with a more complete view of the genome. These products continue to accelerate genetic research and enable scientists to develop diagnostics and tailor treatments for individual patients by identifying and measuring the genetic information associated with complex diseases. Today, Affymetrix technology is used by the world�s top pharmaceutical, diagnostic and biotechnology companies, as well as leading academic, government and not-for-profit research institutes. More than 1,700 systems have been shipped around the world and more than 13,000 peer-reviewed papers have been published using the technology. Affymetrix is headquartered in Santa Clara, Calif., and has manufacturing facilities in Sacramento, Calif., Cleveland, Ohio, and Singapore. The company has about 1,100 employees worldwide and maintains sales and distribution operations across Europe and Asia. For more information about Affymetrix, please visit the company�s website at www.affymetrix.com. Forward-looking Statements All statements in this press release that are not historical are �forward-looking statements� within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act as amended, including statements regarding Affymetrix� �expectations,� �beliefs,� �hopes,� �intentions,� �strategies� or the like. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially for Affymetrix from those projected, including, but not limited to: risks and uncertainties relating to commercial success of the Affymetrix GeneTitan� System discussed in this press release; risks of the company�s ability to achieve and sustain higher levels of revenue, higher gross margins and reduced operating expenses; uncertainties related to technological approaches, manufacturing and product development; personnel retention; uncertainties related to cost and pricing of Affymetrix products; dependence on collaborative partners; uncertainties related to sole-source suppliers; risks associated with past and future acquisitions; uncertainties relating to FDA and other regulatory approvals; competition; risks relating to intellectual property of others and the uncertainties of patent protection and litigation. These and other risk factors are discussed in Affymetrix� Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, and other SEC reports, including its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for subsequent quarterly periods. Affymetrix expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Affymetrix� expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements are based. NOTE: Affymetrix, the Affymetrix logo and GeneChip� are registered trademarks owned or used by Affymetrix Inc.