Cenix BioScience and Merck KGaA Sign Framework Agreement
for RNAi-Based Drug Discovery

Dresden, Germany, September 27, 2006 – Cenix BioScience GmbH (Dresden), the leading specialist in advanced RNA interference (RNAi)-based research services, and Merck KGaA (Darmstadt, Germany), a leading global pharmaceutical company, today announced that they have signed a framework research agreement securing Cenix services to enhance and accelerate Merck target discovery and validation efforts in oncology, with an option to expand in several human disease programs.

Cenix will apply its well-established expertise combining high throughput (HT), genome-scale screening applications of RNAi with high content phenotypic analyses in cultured human cells to discover and validate new therapeutic targets, using assays co-designed with Merck scientists. By yielding direct and highly predictive insights into the cellular functions and loss-of-function phenotypes of analyzed genes, this RNAi-based approach will enable Merck to efficiently select targets with higher confidence for driving their drug development programs.

“As this project represents a very careful and well-thought-out design process, we are delighted to undertake it with Merck” noted Dr. Christophe Echeverri, CEO/CSO of Cenix BioScience. “We look forward to vindicating the recognition and trust shown by our Merck colleagues in allowing Cenix to provide them with the most advanced and mature technology, infrastructure and expertise for performing efficient and fast HT-RNAi-based drug discovery.”

About Cenix BioScience GmbH
Cenix BioScience GmbH is a pioneer and leader in high throughput, genome-driven applications of RNA interference for the discovery and validation of new therapeutic drug targets. Founded in 1999 as the first biotechnology company specializing exclusively in HT-RNAi, Cenix has accumulated unparalleled depth and breadth of experience in this field, combining high content phenotypic analyses with proprietary genome-wide RNAi libraries for use in key experimental systems, including a wide range of human and rodent cells. Cenix is now making its unique expertise accessible to industry and academic researchers through highly customizable research and consulting services. Please contact Cenix for more information.

About Merck KGaA
Merck is a global pharmaceutical and chemical company with sales of EUR 5.9 billion in 2005, a history that began in 1668, and a future shaped by 29,958 employees in 55 countries. Its success is characterized by innovations from entrepreneurial employees. Merck's operating activities come under the umbrella of Merck KGaA, in which the Merck family holds a 73% interest and free shareholders own the remaining 27%. In 1917 the U.S. subsidiary Merck & Co. was expropriated and has been an independent company ever since.

Contact:

Zisi Fotev (Chief Business Officer) Cenix BioScience GmbH Tel: +49 (0) 351 4173 148 Email: fotev@cenix.com