DSM Biomedical Chairs Session on Antimicrobial Surfaces at BioInterface 2007

SAN MATEO, Calif. – Oct. 31, 2007 – At the BioInterface 2007 Workshop and Symposium, Aylvin Dias, Ph.D, R&D program manager for DSM Biomedical, will chair a double session on antimicrobial surfaces with emphasis on biofilms, biofouling and biocidal approaches. This session will be attended by a number of industrial and academic opinion leaders to discuss the latest developments on and challenges to medical device associated infections. During the session, Dr. Dias will introduce ComfortCoat™, DSM’s new coating that addresses catheter associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI).

Comfort Coat™ combines antimicrobial activity with lubricious functionality in one coating. This combination has been demonstrated to not only be bactericidal but also effective in reducing bacterial adhesions. The silver-based antimicrobial properties of ComfortCoat™ remain effective for up to 30 days. “This breakthrough product may help reduce damage to mucosal linings from catheter insertions as well as reduce occurrence of CAUTI” quotes Dr. Dias.

At this session topics such as biofilm formation, the complications of prolonged indwelling catheters as well as new bacteriostatic and bactericidal approaches will be presented.

Other speakers at the session are: Professor H. Busscher, Nederlands; Gord Froehlichs, Kane Biotech, Canada; Nicola Morris, BUI, United Kingdom; and Val Ditizio, Covalon Technologies, Canada.

DSM Biomedical

To meet the upcoming needs of the medical and biotech industries, DSM Biomedical builds on the expertise and strengths of DSM in polymers, coating technology, materials science and life sciences. DSM’s current biomedical portfolio includes ComfortCoat™ hydrophilic coating technology for catheters, guidewires and stent delivery systems and Dyneema Purity®, a specially developed, high performance polyethylene fiber technology, which has been developed specifically for use in medical applications, such as orthopedic implants. Furthermore DSM Biomedical is focusing on developing materials and systems around implantable devices for the musculoskeletal and vascular systems and drug delivery devices in musculoskeletal, vascular and ophthalmic application areas. For more information, visit www.dsmbiomedical.com.

About DSM

DSM creates innovative products and services in life sciences and materials sciences , contributing to the quality of life. DSM's products and services are used globally in a wide range of markets and applications, supporting a healthier, more sustainable and enjoyable way of living. End markets include human and animal nutrition and health, personal care, pharmaceuticals, automotive, coatings and paint, electrics & electronics, life protection and housing. The company strategy, Vision 2010 - Building on Strengths , focuses on accelerating profitable and innovative growth of the company's specialties portfolio. The key drivers of this strategy are market-driven growth and innovation, an increased presence in emerging economies and operational excellence. DSM has annual sales of almost €9 billion and employs some 22,000 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in the Netherlands, with locations in Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa and Australia. More information on DSM can be found at www.dsm.com .

ComfortCoat™ is a trademark owned by Royal DSM.