Devgen remains encouraged by the results of field trials aimed at assessing the biological performance of compounds for nematode control in a variety of crops.

As the 2005 testing season nears completion, positive trends in nematode control with Devgen compounds have been observed in sugar beet, lettuce, celery, carrots and other selected crops. This is evidenced for instance by improved marketable yield of crops such as carrots, enhanced sugar content in beets and overall better crop vigor on crops treated with Devgen compounds compared to plants not receiving nematicidal treatments. Devgen?s compounds performed equally well and in some cases better than commercial standards. Devgen expects these compounds to be competitive from an environmental perspective.

Previously reported results in September 2005, related to tomatoes and cucumbers, have been confirmed with additional studies. Overall, the 2005 field trials demonstrated success in all relevant European nematicide markets.

Based on these observed trends, Devgen will advance one or more of the most active candidates into regulatory trials beginning in 2006.

Devgen (Euronext Brussels: DEVG) is an innovator in biotechnology focused on discovering, developing and commercializing:

• a novel generation of biotech products to protect a wide spectrum of crops from damage incurred from pests;
• safer and more environmentally friendly agro-chemical products to protect crops from damage inflicted by plant parasitic nematodes;
• novel therapeutic concepts and preclinical drug candidates for treatment of metabolic disease (diabetes, obesity, arrhythmia).

Each of these solutions is developed on a platform of in-house designed research, development programs and technologies. Devgen has partnerships with industry leaders such as Monsanto, DuPont/Pioneer, FMC and Sumitomo.
Incorporated in 1997, Devgen has offices in Ghent (Belgium) and Singapore - with a total workforce of close to a 100 people.