Human Genome Sciences Announces Presentation at AASLD of Results of Phase 2b Trial of Albuferon(R) for Chronic H...(1200 Q4w treatment group achieved ...),Health

treatment group achieved SVR, vs. 57.9% for peginterferon alfa-2a

administered every week.

-- In heavier patients (75 kg or heavier) who were treatment-adherent,

61.0% of those in the Albuferon 1200 Q4w treatment group achieved SVR,

versus 53.3% for peginterferon alfa-2a administered once every week.

-- Among all treatment-adherent patients in the Albuferon 1200 Q4w

treatment group, 62.0% achieved SVR, versus 66.7% for peginterferon

alfa-2a.

-- The rate of discontinuations due to adverse events was 12.1% in the

Albuferon 1200 Q4w treatment group, vs. 6.1% in the peginterferon alfa-

2a group. Adverse events observed were those typically expected with

interferon therapy.

-- The number of patients experiencing severe hematologic adverse events

was significantly lower in the Albuferon 1200 Q4w treatment group

(10.3%, vs. 20.2% for peginterferon alfa-2a, p<0.05).

Higher doses of Albuferon administered every four weeks, in combination with ribavirin, will be explored in a separate Phase 2b trial conducted by Novartis, which is expected to begin by year-end 2007.

About Albuferon

Albuferon is a novel long-acting form of interferon alpha created by HGS using its proprietary albumin fusion technology. Albuferon results from the genetic fusion of human albumin and interferon alpha. Human albumin is the most prevalent naturally occurring blood protein in the human circulatory system, persisting in circulation in the body for more than 20 days. Research shows that genetic fusion of therapeutic proteins to human albumin decreases clearance and prolongs the half-life of the proteins. Recombinant interferon alpha is approved for the treatment of hepatitis C, hepatitis B and a number of cancers.

Albuferon is being developed by HGS and Novartis for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C under a worldwide co-development and commerci
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