DUBLIN, Calif., Jan. 3, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq:ASTX), a pharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery and development of novel small molecule therapeutics, today announced that James S.J. Manuso, PhD, chairman and chief executive officer, will present at Biotech Showcase 2013 on Wednesday, January 9th in San Francisco.

The Company's presentation will begin at 2:45 p.m. PT. A live webcast of the presentation will be available in the Investor Events section of the Company's website, www.astx.com. The webcast will be archived for 30 days.

About Astex Pharmaceuticals

Astex Pharmaceuticals is dedicated to the discovery and development of novel small molecule therapeutics with a focus on oncology. The Company is developing a proprietary pipeline of novel therapies and is creating de-risked products for partnership with leading pharmaceutical companies. Astex Pharmaceuticals developed DACOGEN® (decitabine) for Injection and receives significant royalties on global sales.

For more information about Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc., please visit http://www.astx.com.

The Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. logo is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=12273

CONTACT: Timothy L. Enns

         Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

         Senior Vice President

         Corporate Communications & Marketing

         Tel:  +1 (925) 560-2810

         E-mail:  tim.enns@astx.com

         

         Susanna Chau

         Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

         Manager

         Investor Relations

         Tel:  +1 (925) 560-2845

         E-mail:  susanna.chau@astx.com

         

         Alan Roemer

         The Trout Group

         Managing Director

         Tel:  +1 (646) 378-2945

         E-mail: aroemer@troutgroup.com

         

         Kari Watson

         MacDougall Biomedical Communications

         Senior Vice President

         Tel: +1 (781) 235-3060

         E-mail: kwatson@macbiocom.com
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