Collaborations
Divergence recognizes that our company's strengths lie especially in the discovery and early-stage development of products. Hence, third party relationships are very important for the company's success as they provide the channel for products through the final stages of product development and regulatory testing and into commercialization. Divergence is committed to advancing its current candidates of anti-parasitic compounds and plant genes through relationships with crop protection, animal health, and pharmaceutical companies, as well as research entities. Divergence also has a collection of target nematode genes for further exploration in the development of anti-parasitic technologies. In addition, Divergence is interested in implementing research collaborations with different entities. To date, the company has executed two licensing deals including commercial rights and also two major research collaborations. Descriptions of these relationships follow.

Nematode-Resistant Soybeans
Divergence and Monsanto Company executed a licensing agreement in August 2004. Under this relationship, the two parties are working to develop technology that will impart the trait of nematode resistance on soybeans, an important and valuable trait to many growers. Existing activities and intellectual properties from both parties formed the basis of this relationship.

Nematode-Resistant Corn
Divergence and the National Corn Growers Association have had a research relationship since January 2003. With help from the NCGA, Divergence is working to develop nematode-resistant corn. Nematodes, such as corn lesion, lance, and sting cause significant damage to corn growers, especially in the Southeastern United States, in regions with sandy soil, and in acres where crop rotation practices are not utilized.

Safe and Effective Anti-Parasitic Chemistry
Divergence and Tripos implemented a research relationship in the summer of 2004. The focus of the collaborative work is the discovery and development of compounds that are effective at low use rates against parasitic organisms and possess other attributes that are important for ultimate commercial success.

Animal Health Product
Divergence and an undisclosed company implemented a research and commercial relationship in early 2006. The focus of the collaborative work is the discovery and development of a novel product in animal health. Details will be released at an appropriate time.

Contact Derek Rapp, Divergence's CEO, to learn more about the potential for additional relationships.