AFFX Affymetrix, Inc.

Affymetrix Launches Updated Whole-Genome Drosophila Array for Gene Expression Analysis Array Design Based on Berkeley Drosophila Genome Project Database Release 3.1 SANTA CLARA, Calif., March 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Affymetrix, Inc., today announced that it is taking orders for its new GeneChip(R) Drosophila Genome 2.0 array, offering researchers the most comprehensive and up-to-date microarray available for Drosophila melanogaster gene expression research. (For an interactive version of this press release, with additional information on Drosophila microarray research and databases, go to http://www.corporate-ir.net/ireye/ir_site.zhtml?ticker=AFFX&script=400 and click on the release title) The design of the new array was largely based onthe content from the recent annotation (release 3.1) of the Drosophila melanogaster genome by Flybase and the Berkeley Drosophila Genome Project (BDGP), funded by the National Human Genome Research Institute, Department of Energy, and the Howard HughesMedical Institute. In addition, other published gene predictions from the Drosophila Research community were also included. Gerald Rubin, Ph.D., Director of the BDGP commented on the recent Drosophila genome release: "The Drosophila community contributed new data, computational analysis, and human curation to create Release 3.1, a significant improvement on our view of the genome which the previous generation Drosophila Affymetrix array was based." "This array is not only based on the most recentview of the genome, it also utilizes our sophisticated probe selection methods and leverages our high-resolution platform for improved analysis," said Lianne McLean, Director, Gene Expression Marketing, Affymetrix. "The new array design includes over 30% more content than the previous generation Drosophila melanogaster design. Our customers are excited about this release." Affymetrix' probe set strategy, which uses multiple data points to measure each transcript, has been proven through a series ofrigorous and exacting performance benchmarks to provide an unparalleled level of data quality. In total, the array uses over 500,000 data points to measure the expression of 18,500 transcripts and variants. Twenty-eight different probes are used to measure each individual transcript, providing optimal sensitivity and specificity, and the most accurate, reproducible and statistically significant results possible. Affymetrix has become the industry standard technology for gene expression analysis, with over 2,000 papers in total published using the GeneChip technology. The Drosophila Genome 2.0 Array is part of Affymetrix' latest generation system, which includes new instruments, reagents and higher density arrays. The new arrays offer over two and a half times more data on a single array, putting high quality, affordable whole-genome analysis within the reach of individual researchers worldwide. Affymetrix will provide quarterly updates of Drosophila sequence and annotation information through NetAffx(TM) Analysis Center to keep researchers abreast of the latest annotation developments. Affymetrix launched its first Drosophila melanogaster array in 2000. About Affymetrix: Affymetrix is a pioneer in creating breakthrough tools that are driving the genomic revolution. By applying the principles of semiconductor technology to the life sciences, Affymetrix develops and commercializes systems that enable scientists to improve the quality of life. The Company's customers include pharmaceutical, biotechnology, agrichemical, diagnostics and consumer products companies as well as academic, government and other non-profit research institutes. Affymetrix offers an expanding portfolio of integrated products and services, including its integrated GeneChip brand platform, to address growing markets focused on understanding the relationship between genes and human health. Additional information on Affymetrix can be found at http://www.affymetrix.com/. All statements in this press release that arenot 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 of the Company's ability to achieve and sustain higher levels of revenue, higher gross margins, reduced operating expenses, uncertainties relating to technological approaches, manufacturing, product development, market acceptance (including uncertainties relating to product development and market acceptance of the GeneChip Drosophila Genome 2.0 Array), personnel retention, uncertainties related to cost and pricing of Affymetrix products, dependence on collaborative partners, uncertainties relating to sole source suppliers, 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, 2003 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 anychange 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. DATASOURCE: Affymetrix, Inc. CONTACT: media, Wes Conard, Associate Director, Public Relations, +1-408-731-5791, or investors, Doug Farrell, Vice President, Investor Relations, +1-408-731-5285, both of Affymetrix, Inc. Web site: http://www.affymetrix.com/

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