Aurora Installs Storage And Retrieval Module Of UHTTS At Bristol-Myers Squibb

The first member to join Aurora Biosciences' syndicate to design and develop the Ultra-high Throughput Screening System (UHTSS) has had its automated storage and retrieval module delivered and installed. The module was installed at the Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceutical Research Institute in Wallingford, CT. Bristol-Myers Squibb signed its collaboration and licensing agreement with Aurora in December 1996.

The automated storage and retrieval system for Aurora's UHTSS is designed to house more than 1,000,000 discrete compounds in solution for computer-controlled access. Aurora has developed an automated retrieval system for the module that can select and deliver specified compounds from this library of chemicals at a rate of at least 100,000 compounds per day for primary screening.

"We are pleased to be the first of Aurora's partners to receive the storage and retrieval module," said Dr. John Houston, vice president, Lead Discovery, at Bristol-Myers Squibb. "This module is the first deliverable of our major investment in Aurora's UHTSS. We have custom-designed a facility to house the UHTSS, which will reinforce the world-class screening capabilities of Bristol-Myers Squibb and significantly enhance our lead drug discovery capability."

Other companies that have joined Aurora's syndicate are: Eli Lilly and Company, announced in January 1997; Warner-Lambert Company, announced in September 1997; and Merck & Co., announced in December 1997. Syndicate members are collaborating with Aurora on the development of the UHTSS and specific screening assays. Each member provides funding support for the cost of development of the UHTSS and is scheduled to receive its own system over a three- to four- year period for use in its internal drug discovery programs.

The next module will include the miniaturization of the screening process, including completion of technology for the microfluidics and NanoPlates screening platforms. The technology for this module is scheduled for completion by year-end 1998 with delivery to the first syndicate partners during the first half of 1999.

For more information: Angela L. Hartley, director, Corporate Communications and Investor Relations, Aurora Biosciences Corporation, 11010 Torreyana Road, San Diego, CA 92121. Telephone: 619-404-6767. Fax: 619-452-5723.