Genomics-based drug discovery company CuraGen (New Haven, CT) announced in early June the launch of 454 Corporation, a subsidiary to develop novel technologies for use in drug discovery, preclinical development, and pharmacogenetics. According to CuraGen founder and CEO Jonathan Rothberg, 454's goals are very different than its parent: Whereas CuraGen is focused on drug development, 454's focus will be on creating tools, such as software, that will make use of knowledge of the entire genome, not just individual genes. So as not to dilute CuraGen's resources, says Rothberg, it is necessary to bring in a separate management team as well as new investors for the subsidiary. However, CuraGen's investors stand to benefit because CuraGen's majority stake in 454 will allow it to stay on the edge of new technology and access the new tools first, says Rothberg. CuraGen's stock rose about 9% the day of the announcement, to $39.88.