IBM, gene database firm ink deal

PALO ALTO: Incyte Genomics Inc. on Monday said IBM Corp. has agreed to supply

the gene database company with software designed to unravel the links between

genes and diseases.

Under the deal, Incyte will use International Business Machines'

DiscoveryLink data management software to help it analyze the rapidly growing

amount of data on genes - their structure, function and how they contribute to

disease.

Specific terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The alliance is the first created by IBM's new Life Sciences business unit,

whose formation was announced in August with the aim of developing technology

for biotech and pharmaceutical companies.

IBM said in August said it would establish a $100 million investment fund to

help biotech and pharmaceutical companies process by computer vast amounts of

human genetic code data to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

(C) Reuters Limited 2000.