Collaborative Research Inc. said Monday that it has beenawarded a $500,000 grant by the National Institute of GeneralMedical Sciences to develop a DNA identification system usingpolymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology.

The two-year Phase II small business innovation researchgrant follows an initial study in which the company developedtwo DNA markers that were adapted for use with PCR. TheWaltham, Mass., company now plans to develop additionalmarkers, create databases of markers for populationsubgroups, and automate the analysis, said Dr. Gerald Vovis,senior vice president for R&D.

The company (NASDAQ:CRIC) will offer the tests through itsCollaborative Diagnostics division. The company plans tomarket an identity testing product for forensics and newborntesting, Vovis said.

The stock closed down 25 cents at $3.25 on Monday. -- KH

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