WASHINGTON, DC - March 26, 2002 - The U.S. Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute (AFRRI) and Biopolymer Engineering, Inc. today announced a joint agreement to research the radiation-protective characteristics of one of the company's compounds.

Radiation exposure destroys bone marrow and depletes white blood cells that defend against infection and disease. In this immune-weakened state, susceptibility to infection is increased.

Earlier preclinical studies at the Institute support the fact that systemic (injected) administration of soluble and particulate forms of beta 1,3 glucan, obtained from yeast cell walls, can combat radiation effects, enhancing the recovery of white blood cells and increasing the survival rate in mice given a lethal dose of radiation. The first phase of the new research project announced today will test in mice the efficacy of orally delivered WGP Glucan, a patented yeast compound manufactured by Biopolymer Engineering.

The Institute, a U.S. Department of Defense laboratory chartered by Congress in 1961, is a part of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and conducts radiobiology and related research essential to the operational and medical support of the military services. The Institute collaborates with other government organizations, academic institutions, and civilian laboratories in the United States and other countries. Its findings have broad military and civilian applications. Website: www.afrri.usuhs.mil.

Biopolymer Engineering, Inc. is a leading biotechnology company in the field of natural complex carbohydrates or biopolymers. The company is developing carbohydrate-based products for a wide range of therapeutic, consumer and industrial applications. Founded in 1997 and based in Eagan, Minnesota, the company has built a strong technology platform of patented and proprietary intellectual property relating to its carbohydrate-based products.