GTC Biotherapeutics (fka GTCB)

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LFB Biotechnologies and GTC Biotherapeutics to Collaborate on rhAAT Program

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. & PARIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GTC Biotherapeutics, Inc. ("GTC", Nasdaq: GTCB) and LFB Biotechnologies, a wholly owned subsidiary of LFB S.A. (Laboratoire francais du Fractionnement et des Biotechnologies S.A.) have agreed to include GTC’s recombinant human alpha-1 antitrypsin program in their strategic collaboration for the development of selected recombinant plasma proteins and monoclonal antibodies. In accordance with the existing collaboration agreement, LFB will be providing additional funding to support GTC’s work in the recombinant human alpha-1 antitrypsin program for 2008.

“Together with LFB Biotechnologies, we are developing a broad portfolio of recombinant plasma proteins with significant market opportunities which are uniquely supported by our production technology,” stated Geoffrey F. Cox, Ph.D., GTC’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “The capabilities of our transgenic system are well suited to therapeutic proteins where expression rates, production volume, or cost are key considerations.”

“Thanks to this collaboration with GTC, the world leader in transgenic animal technology, LFB has access to the innovative production platform we need to be able to expand our market base in Europe and potentially beyond”, stated Christian Béchon, LFB’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We are excited to be working on a broad portfolio of recombinant plasma proteins and monoclonal antibodies to provide the opportunity for expanded patient access to these products.”

http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/080508/20080508005343.html?.v=1