Perlegen Sciences, Inc. announced today that it will assist Merck & Co., Inc. in conducting a
high-density whole genome analysis of more than 1,000 individuals with important clinical characteristics.

Using Affymetrix GeneChip® technology including the GeneChip® Human Mapping 500K Array Set, Perlegen scientists will assay up to 675,000 unique genetic variations (also called single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs) in DNA samples provided by Merck. Perlegen will utilize its high capacity SNP genotyping capability to rapidly generate extremely dense DNA variation data that can be integrated with other large datasets Merck has generated by molecular profiling clinically important tissue samples internally. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

“We are pleased to work with Merck scientists in identifying DNA variations that may underlie biological mechanisms important to their drug discovery efforts,” Brad Margus, CEO of Perlegen. “It was an honor to have been selected by Merck for this important project.”

About Perlegen

Perlegen Sciences, Inc. is working to provide safe and effective medicines to the world. The company quickly and cost effectively analyzes millions of genetic variations in DNA samples obtained from clinical trial participants. This information is used to explain and predict the efficacy and adverse effect profiles of prescription drugs. Perlegen also applies this expertise to discovering genetic variants associated with disease for potential new therapeutics and diagnostics. For years, scientists and drug manufacturers have been eager to comprehensively examine entire genomes; through Perlegen, this is now possible. Perlegen is able to bring drugs to the market that might otherwise have been discontinued in clinical development.

Based in Mountain View, California, Perlegen was formed in late 2000 as a spin-off from Affymetrix, Inc. (Nasdaq: AFFX). For more information about the company and its technologies, visit Perlegen’s website at www.perlegen.com. Perlegen Sciences, Perlegen, and the Perlegen logo are trademarks of Perlegen Sciences, Inc.

Contact:
Perlegen Sciences, Inc.
Phyllis Whiteley
Senior Vice President, Business Development and Licensing
Perlegen Sciences
(650) 625-4500