Stefansson and Harper both say that their intent is to leave DeCodeas it is, and to continue to allow it to publish its discoveries in scientific journals while giving Amgen access to the people doing the research to help speed its drug discovery efforts.
In contrast, a genomics firm like Iceland's DeCode Genetics (nasdaq: DCGN - news - people ) might apply for 350 gene patents--as DeCode did today--that might make money someday, but still post a loss.
DeCode's Stefansson says he hopes the deal will help the company market its services to other drug and biotech companies in the future, by establishing DeCode's software as the standard method for analyzing gene data.