GENEX, Inc.
ARK Mori Building 25F
1-12-32 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-6025, Japan
TEL: +81-70-2490-8411 | FAX:+81-3-4323-4052
https://genex.co.jp| support@genex.co.jp

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:GENEX begins whole-genome molecular testing service for people
concerned about rare, intractable “Nanbyo” diseases- A genetic analysis report to support a physician’s diagnosis is available for less than 40,000 yen -TOKYO, December 22, 2022 – GENEX, Inc. (headquarters: Tokyo; Representative Directors and Presidents: KenYagi and Atsushi Iida; hereinafter, GENEX) is pleased to announce that it will begin sales of GENEX’s WholeGenome Test (launch commemorative price: 39,800 yen tax-exlusive, 43,780 yen tax-inclusive) aimed at people or
their loved ones who are concerned about rare, intractable diseases. Sales are limited to the first 100 customers.
Service features
1. Examines all three-billion nucleotides (A/G/T/C letters) of human DNA and detects millions of genetic variants
that all people have. A re-analysis of the sample can be performed to reflect future technological advances and newfindings.
2. Looks for sequences that match any genetic variants experts consider disease-causing, and provides a detailed
report. Additional information about risk factors related to nationally designated intractable diseases (“Nanbyo”) is
provided to better support possible access to medical attention.
3. Testing using a saliva sample can be conducted easily, anywhere, at any time, at an affordable price for individuals.
Genetic analysis technology has matured to a point where it is now possible for individuals to obtain their entire
genetic (whole-genome) information. On the other hand, there are several unresolved ethical, legal and social issues,
such as the right to know vs. the right not to know, the psychological burden of being aware of one’s disease risk andthe impact on the family. Therefore, except for certain research and medical reasons, there have been no services tomeet the needs of those who want more detailed information to act upon, such as individuals who suspect they have arare, intractable disease and their families.
GENEX has begun accepting applications for a new testing service that enables individuals 18 years and older toobtain their whole-genome information and learn their genetic risk for rare, intractable diseases. Users who agree tothe terms and conditions of the service send a saliva sample and will receive a genetic analysis report several months
later. The report provides detailed and easy-to-understand explanations of disorders that could be associated to thedetected genetic variants. If a physician suspects that the patient may have a related disease, the physician can thendecide to conduct separate tests necessary for a diagnosis (the GENEX test is a direct-to-consumer genetic test which
is for non-diagnostic use).
GENEX’s Whole-Genome Test: https://genex.co.jp/gt/
This service has three differentiating factors. The first is the transparency of results. Errors in genetic analysis areinevitable and it is impossible to predict the fate of an individual. Even evaluations by experts can change with theevolution of research. With full awareness of the limitations of this technology, GENEX provides information with afocus on supporting physicians who may experience difficulties diagnosing rare, intractable diseases. We provide
data to support how reliable the information is and as needed, re-analyze the information. This is the first attempt inJapan* to report whole-genome information directly to users with such a set of evidence as consumer service.
*Based on a GENEX survey as of December 19, 2022

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The second differentiating factor is high quality and ease of use. Through its joint research with Japan’s leading
mitochondrial disease research consortium, GENEX has developed a high level of expertise in rare disease
genomics. In addition, GENEX has been conducting patient-involved verification tests in the second half of this year
and striving to respond to the needs of patient advocacy groups, such as the desire for patients to share their test
results with their physicians.
The third differentiating factor is the low burden of testing. Users need only to send in a saliva sample and no blood
test or biopsy is required. This is good news for users who live in rural areas without close access to core hospitals or
who wish to avoid the physical strain of medical tests. In addition, while the going price of similar tests is in the100,000 to several-hundred-thousand-yen range, the price of GENEX’s test has been set to just less than 40,000 yen,making it affordable for those who may not be able to receive cost subsidies.
To ensure the quality of this distinct service, the commemorative price will be available to the first 100 customers
only (scheduled for the end of March 2023).
To resolve societal issues
Patients with rare, intractable diseases often spend years getting a definitive diagnosis and treatment protocol.
Usually, the diagnostic process involves performing various tests and only after the physician has narrowed down thefocus, obtaining genetic information. Alternatively, GENEX believes that whole-genome information can bepositioned as an effective preliminary screening measure before medical treatment. In other words, by firstobjectively identifying possible disease candidates before making any medical judgments, subsequent medical testingand diagnosis can be conducted more efficiently.
Genomic medicine and diagnostics exemplifies that research activities and medical practices are sometimes
inseparable, and currently it is sustained by busy, devoted physicians and researchers with limited funds andpersonnel. Fortunately, discussion about legislation to prevent discrimination and other downside risks related togenomic medicine is accelerating. With the popularization of telemedicine, which is helping to bridge regional
disparities in access to medical care, the social environment behind genomic medicine is improving. While national
and local government ensure universal health coverage in Japan, companies like us will not only be able to benefit
people who are otherwise inaccessible to such added services, but also help lead to improved allocation of resources
for research and medical care.
For a future society where individuals can own, think about and act upon their own data, GENEX seeks to be a
responsible pioneer in promoting the use of whole-genome information and nurturing a healthy environment byventuring into fields like diagnostic decision support. We look forward to hearing from like-minded patient advocacy
groups, clinics, medical institutions, and companies and organizations involved in disease awareness.

About GENEX, Inc.: The company was established in August 2019 as a start up to plan and operate genome andhealthcare-related data platforms with Monex Group, Inc., Sugi Holdings, Co., Ltd., Kaken Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.,and others as shareholders.
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