American Biogenetic Sciences Inc. has acquired exclusiveworldwide rights to a genetic screening technique that it plansto develop to detect susceptibility to breast cancer.

ABS (NASDAQ:MABXA) will develop a product from a DNA-based test that was discovered by H.F. Given and D.R. Headon,both of the biochemistry department at University College,Galway, Ireland. The method involves the detection of adistinct genetic lesion that the researchers have found in about25 percent of breast cancer patients.

Coupled with other physiological factors, the lesion mightpredispose a woman to breast cancer, according to ABS.

Headon and Given will receive sales royalties. No other termswere disclosed. ABS shares closed at $6.88 on Wednesday,down 75 cents.

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