· Successful generation of functional Nanobodies to an ion channel
·        In vivo proof-of-concept for GPCR targeting Nanobody in hematopoietic
stem cell mobilization programme


GHENT,  Belgium, 11 January  2010 - Ablynx  [Euronext Brussels:  ABLX] announced
today  two significant advances achieved within its R&D portfolio. In the first,
it  has demonstrated the successful  generation of functional Nanobodies against
an  ion channel. In the second, Ablynx has demonstrated in vivo proof-of-concept
for  a GPCR targeting stem cell mobilization  programme. The target, CXCR4, is a
validated  chemokine receptor  that plays  an important  role in  cell movement,
tumor growth and metastasis.

Nanobodies against an ion channel*()

Ablynx  has generated functional Nanobodies  in the sub-nanomolar range, against
an  ion channel. The Nanobodies can  block the ion channel function irrespective
of  whether it has been  indirectly or directly activated.  The ion channel drug
class is technically very challenging and only a few functional research reagent
monoclonal  antibodies  exist.  Ion  channels  are  highly  relevant therapeutic
targets  especially in areas  such as neuropathic  pain, neurological disorders,
inflammation and cardiovascular disorders.

In vivo proof-of-concept in CXCR4 stem cell mobilisation programme

Ablynx  has successfully generated functional  Nanobodies against the clinically
validated chemokine receptor, CXCR4. Two types of Nanobody have been identified:
highly  potent antagonistic  Nanobodies, as  well as  anti-CXCR4 Nanobodies with
inverse agonist function.  Ablynx has demonstrated in vivo proof-of-concept in a
hematopoietic stem cell model. A single, intravenous administration of formatted
anti-CXCR4  Nanobody resulted in  rapid mobilization of  stem cells in vivo. The
antagonistic  Nanobodies are  now being  further evaluated  for their ability to
mobilize hematopoietic stem cells in certain types of cancers.

Edwin Moses, CEO and Chairman of Ablynx, commented:
"Raising  functional Nanobodies against  two very challenging  drug classes, ion
channels and GPCRs, further demonstrates the strength and broad applicability of
the  Nanobody  platform.  These  breakthroughs  may  open up important routes to
innovative  new therapies. I am also extremely pleased with the progress made in
the  last 12 months,  with four  Nanobodies now  in clinical development, two of
which  are  in  Phase  II.  Our  lead programme in thrombosis, ALX-0081, reached
proof-of-concept  by  biomarker  at  the  end  of  last year. We look forward to
building  on this success with primary  endpoint data anticipated for both Phase
II trials during 2010."

                                     -ends-

For more information, please contact:

College Hill Life Sciences - for International media enquiries:
Sue Charles, Justine Lamond
t:   +44 (0)20 7866 7857
f:   +44 (0)20 7866 7900
e:  ablynx@collegehill.com 

Ablynx:
Dr Edwin Moses
Chairman and CEO
t:   +32 (0)9 262 00 07
m: +44 (0)7771 954 193 / +32 (0)473 39 50 68
e:  edwin.moses@ablynx.com 



[HUG#1372346]





    Complete version of the press release: http://hugin.info/137912/R/1372346/336081.pdf