European Commission Awards EUR5.9m to Opsona Therapeutics for Clinical Development of Lead Drug Candidate OPN-305

DUBLIN, May 6, 2011 - Opsona Therapeutics, a drug development company focused on novel
therapeutic approaches to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases
announced that it will receive EUR5.9million, one of the largest grants ever
awarded by the European Union FP7 Health, Program, to lead a European
consortium of research and clinical groups (MABSOT*) in the advancement of
clinical trials for its lead drug candidate OPN-305 in solid organ
transplantation. The specific focus of the trial will be on Delayed Graft
Function (DGF), a serious complication of the immediate postoperative period
in renal transplantation. A phase 1 trial in healthy volunteers is due to
start this summer. Following successful completion of the Phase 1 trial this
year, the consortium plans to conduct a prospective randomised
placebo-controlled Phase 2 trial in the prevention of DGF to be initiated in
2012.

Notes to Editors:

*Monoclonal Antibody Solid Organ Transplantation - www.MABSOT.com

(Appointments) Opsona Therapeutics announced this week that it has
appointed Leon Hooftman, M.D., as Chief Medical Officer. Dr Hooftman recently
served as CMO at Chroma Therapeutics (UK). He was previously Head of Clinical
Development at Celltech (U.K.). He worked with Hoffmann La-Roche and Syntex
also. Opsona Therapeutics also announced this week that CEO Dr. Mark
Heffernan has stepped down for personal reasons but will remain as a
non-Executive Board member. Bernd Seizinger, M.D., Ph.D., has been appointed
Executive Chairman. Dr. Seizinger will oversee the CEO search and assume
additional responsibilities for the Company's operations during this period.
www.opsona.com.

For further information - Niamh Lyons for Opsona Therapeutics -
+353-1-6633602

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