AFFX Affymetrix, Inc.

Affymetrix Launches Single Rat Array for Whole-Genome Expression Analysis Nearly One Million Probes Analyze Expression Levels of Approximately 30,000 RNA Transcripts and Variants on a Single Array SANTA CLARA, Calif., March 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/-- Affymetrix, Inc., today announced the launch of its new GeneChip(R) Rat Genome 230 2.0 Array, offering researchers the transcribed rat genome on a single microarray, significantly reducing the labor, time and resources needed for any gene expression experiment. (For an interactive version of this press release, with additional information on rat 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 RatGenome 230 2.0 Array represents the largest number of rat transcripts and variants available on a single expression analysis array, consolidating all the data from the previous two-array Rat Expression Set 230. This new array represents over 30,000 transcripts, including 28,000 well-substantiated rat genes from several leading public rat genome databases including UniGene and Baylor College of Medicine Human Genome Sequencing Center information databases. All probe sequences and annotations are freely available through Affymetrix' online NetAffx(TM) Analysis Center. "The Rat Genome 230 2.0 Array is part of a new generation of Affymetrix arrays that bring cost-effective, comprehensive, high performance whole-genome analysis to the individual scientist," said Alan Dance, Senior Vice President, Affymetrix Applications Business Unit. "Affymetrix' probe set strategy, which uses multiple data points to measure each transcript, has been proven through a series of rigorous and exacting performance benchmarks to offer an unparalleled level of data quality in gene expression analysis." Affymetrix uses 22 independent probes to quantitate the levels of each of 30,000 transcripts on the array, providing optimal sensitivity and specificity, and the mostaccurate, reproducible and statistically significant results available today. GeneChip rat expression analysis arrays have accelerated discovery in a wide range of scientific disciplines including toxicology, neurobiology and physiology. The reproducibility of GeneChip rat microarrays has been an important factor in their widespread use to populate gene expression databases, which have become critically important tools in the field of predictive toxicology. This week, scientists at the Society of Toxicology Annual Meeting will present their most recent GeneChip rat microarray findings, studying the toxicological effects of chemicals ranging from common environmental contaminants to sarin nerve gas. Packaging the transcribed rat genome on a single array will help these scientists accelerate their research and development by reducing the time and resources needed for benchtop experiments. Affymetrix' next generation expression arrays include the GeneChip(R) Mouse Genome 430 2.0 Array, GeneChip(R) Human Genome U133 Plus 2.0 Array and new, higher density GeneChip(R) CustomExpress(TM) Arrays. These new arrays offer over two and a half times more data on a single array, making high quality, affordable whole-genome analysis within the reach of individual researchers worldwide. A new generation of instruments, including the new GeneChip(R) Scanner 3000, the GeneChip(R) Autoloader and the GeneChip(R) Fluidics Station 450, offer researchers a robust and reliable system to process Affymetrix' new generation of chips. 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 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 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 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 Rat Genome 230 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 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. DATASOURCE: Affymetrix, Inc., CONTACT: media, Wes Conard, Associate Director, Public Relations, +1-408-731-5791, or investors, DougFarrell, Vice President, Investor Relations, +1-408-731-5285, both of Affymetrix, Inc. Web site: http://www.affymetrix.com/

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