Rosetta Genomics Ltd., a leading developer and provider of microRNA-based molecular diagnostics, has received receipt of a Notice of Allowance from the US Patent Office related to US Patent Application No. 12/517,760 entitled "Nucleic Acids Involved in Viral Infection."

The allowed claims include a method of reducing the amount of virus replication in a target cell infected with the virus by introducing into the target cell an effective amount of miR-210, its variants or its precursor.

"We are delighted to add this new patent to our expanding intellectual property portfolio of microRNAs in viral infection. This newly granted patent further solidifies our dominant patent position in microRNAs and opens up other disease states where microRNAs may be of great benefit. Many of the current viral therapeutics suffer from low efficacy, toxicity and induction of resistance.  With its potential to reduce viral replication, miR-210 may prove to be an effective therapeutic that may overcome the limitations of currently available viral treatments," stated Kenneth A Berlin, president and CEO of Rosetta Genomics. "Our growing patent position in microRNAs provides us with the opportunity to license, partner or otherwise derive value from this powerful technology in viral and other disease areas."

Rosetta Genomics maintains a robust intellectual property strategy to protect its leadership position in microRNA technology. Rosetta's portfolio includes 29 issued patents, including 25 in the US. In addition, Rosetta has 41 patent applications, including 21 in the US.

miRview are a series of microRNA-based diagnostic products offered by Rosetta Genomics. miRview mets² accurately identifies the primary tumour type in primary and metastatic cancer including CUP. miRview meso diagnoses mesothelioma, a cancer connected to asbestos exposure. miRview lung accurately identifies the four main subtypes of lung cancer using small amounts of tumour cells. miRview kidney accurately classifies the four most common kidney tumours: clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC), papillary RCC, chromophobe RCC and oncocytoma. miRview tests are designed to provide objective diagnostic data; it is the treating physician's responsibility to diagnose and administer the appropriate treatment. In the US alone, Rosetta Genomics estimates that 200,000 patients a year may benefit from the miRview mets² test, 60,000 from miRview meso, 54,000 from miRview kidney and 226,000 patients from miRview lung. The Company's assays are offered directly by Rosetta Genomics in the US, and through distributors around the world.

Rosetta develops and commercializes a full range of microRNA-based molecular diagnostics.