St. Louis (December 7th, 2004) - Divergence, Inc. was selected as one of the Top 50 companies of the St. Louis region by the Regional Chamber and Growth Association and by Deloitte Touche and Tohmatsu. Divergence has been recognized as a Top 50 company in each of the past three years.

Divergence's successful discovery research efforts in the prevention and treatment of parasitic infections, establishment of strong relationships with several St. Louis-based organizations, effective capital-raising, and the building of a strong management and scientific team were cited as reasons for the honor.

"We were very pleased to receive this honor again," said Derek Rapp, Chief Executive Officer of Divergence. "I am proud of all that the Divergence team has accomplished to date, and I am confident that many great opportunities and accomplishments lie ahead for the company.

"We appreciate the support that we have received from a number of St. Louis entities, and we are proud to be recognized along with some of them," said Rapp.

Divergence is a research and development company dedicated to the discovery of effective and ecologically sound strategies for the control of parasites and other pests. The company's current focus is on parasitic nematodes, one of the world's major pest groups. Nematodes are roundworms that cause billions of dollars in damage annually to numerous crops, including soybeans, corn, and cotton, as well as most fruits and vegetables. Nematodes also cause widespread disease in animals, including infections such as heartworm in dogs and cats and intestinal worms in livestock. Nematodes infecting humans include species causing elephantiasis and river blindness as well as numerous intestinal parasites.

For more information on Divergence, visit www.divergence.com.