PRESS RELEASE

11 th January 2007

The European Commission approves first and only enzyme Replacement Therapy MPSII, Hunter Disease

The European Commission has granted marketing authorisation for the use of Elaprase for the long-term treatment of patients with MPSII, Hunter disease.

Hunter disease is a very rare, progressive and life limiting condition, which usually affects males but infrequently is seen in females.

Hunter disease comprises a wide spectrum of severity and clinical involvement.

Whilst all those affected suffer progressive physical disability of the severe end of the spectrum children also endure progressive neuro - degeneration and usually die in childhood. Although it is known that the enzyme is unlikely to cross the blood brain barrier parents of these patients are likely to request Enzyme Replacement Therapy as a means of improving quality of life. All children and young adults with Hunter Disease have a poor long – term prognosis. The approval of Elaprase offers the first real hope of long – term treatment of those suffering from Hunter disease and the chance for an improvement in their condition and consequently their day – to day life.

This is a devastating condition which affects not only the individual, but their families and we believe following the evidence of our members in the clinical trials that and Elaprase will have a huge benefit for those affected.

Contacts;- Christine Lavery (Chief Executive)

Sophie Denham (Senior Advocacy Support Officer)

The Society for Mucopolysaccharide Disease, MPS House, Repton Place, White Lion Road, Amersham, Bucks, HP7 9LP

T: 0845 389 9901
F: 0845 389 9901
E: mps@mpssociety.co.uk