Avitar Expands Technology Foundation In Oral Fluid Diagnostics

Avitar Receives Notice of Allowance on a Patent for DNA Collection Device

June 07, 2005

CANTON, Mass (June 7, 2005) -- Avitar, Inc. (Amex: AVR) announced today it has received a Notice of Allowance on a patent for an oral fluid collection device used for DNA PCR-based ("polymerase chain reaction") testing. PCR-based testing is the dominant type of DNA testing used today.

"Our DNA collection device patent further solidifies Avitar’s family of intellectual property for the collection and processing of oral fluids," explained Pete Phildius, Chairman & CEO of Avitar. "The role of oral fluids and DNA in in-vitro diagnostic testing is becoming increasingly important as scientific advances provide the opportunity for rapid testing, which facilitates earlier detection and lower testing costs."

The invention includes the use of Avitar’s proprietary hydrophilic foam and provides a simple and inexpensive method for collecting and delivering an oral fluid sample. In addition, the device covered by the patent is used for delivering the sample to a collection matrix, drying the sample on the collection matrix, and subsequently isolating DNA from the sample for PCR-based testing.

Applications include: DNA testing for forensic and paternal identification, RNA testing, antibody testing, testing for specified drugs, and other similar diagnostic procedures.

ABOUT AVITAR Avitar, Inc. develops, manufactures and markets innovative and proprietary products. Their field includes the oral fluid diagnostic market, the disease and clinical testing market, and customized polyurethane applications used in the wound dressing industry. Avitar manufactures ORALscreen®, the world’s first non-invasive, rapid, onsite oral fluid test for drugs-of-abuse, as well as HYDRASORB®, an absorbent topical dressing for moderate to heavy exudating wounds. Avitar is also developing diagnostic strategies for disease and clinical testing in the estimated $25 billion in-vitro diagnostics market. Conditions targeted include influenza, diabetes, and pregnancy. For more information, see Avitar’s website at avitarinc.com.

Safe Harbor Statement. This release contains forward looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties including the development and marketing of new applications and other risks that are detailed from time to time in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In view of such risks and uncertainties, the Company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward looking statements.