Dutch biotechnology company Crucell N.V. (Euronext, NASDAQ: CRXL, Swiss Exchange: CRX) today announced a long-term distribution deal with North Carolina-headquartered Talecris Biotherapeutics, GmBH.

Under the terms of the agreement, Crucell will serve as the exclusive distributor of Talecris' Prolastin® (alpha-1 proteinase inhibitor) in 9 Western European countries, replacing current distributor, Bayer.

Fully praising the completion of the extraordinary deal, Crucell's President and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ronald H.P. Brus said, "We are very proud to work with such a well-established and respected company and take over the distribution from Bayer. Not only does this deal match with our mission to advance in the therapeutic proteins arena but it also strengthens Crucell's global credibility and serves as a major step on our expansion path."

This unique distribution deal makes the first full use of Crucell's newly integrated pan-European marketing and sales organization created through the acquisitions of Berna Biotech and SBL Vaccines in 2006.

Alpha-1 treatments are currently sold across Europe and North America. The current North American annual market size is estimated to be over US$250 million.

About Alpha-1
Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Deficiency, also known as AATD or Alpha-1, is an inherited disorder that causes significant reduction in the naturally occurring protein AAT. AATD is also the most common cause of genetic liver disease in children, and genetic emphysema (shortness of breath) in adults. Individuals suffering from AATD often develop severe obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) causing disability and premature death. Alpha-1 is most common in the Caucasian population of Northern Europe and North America, affecting approximately 150,000 people.

About Prolastin
Prolastin® is indicated for chronic augmentation therapy of individuals having hereditary deficiency of alpha-1 proteinase inhibitor with clinically demonstrable panacinar emphysema. Individuals with selective IgA deficiencies who have known antibody against IgA should not receive Prolastin®, since these patients may experience severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, to IgA which may be present.