Human Genome Sciences, Merck KGaA, SmithKline deal

HGSI and SmithKline finalized their agreement under which Merck receives access to the bioinformatics systems developed and installed by SmithKline to directly access the cDNA database built by SmithKline and HGSI. (see BioCentury April 22).

Merck also will have access to certain other information and technology developed by SmithKline and HGSI, including data on the biological roles of genes in the database. Merck will make $50 million in database access payments during the initial five-year term, excluding milestones and royalties, to be shared by HGSI and SmithKline. ...