Invitrogen Corp. has entered into a definitive merger agreement under which Invitrogen will acquire New Jersey-based Sentigen in a cash transaction of approximately $25.9 million for all shares currently issued and outstanding.

Sentigen’s Tango Assay System and division arrested Assay Ready Cells will bolster Invitrogen’s position in assay development by providing a novel approach to screen G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) and other key drug target classes, as well as providing a methodology to convert live cell assays into ready-to-use consumable products. Sentigen will become a part of Invitrogen’s Discovery Sciences Business based in Madison, WI.

“Adding Sentigen’s capabilities to our drug discovery platform gives researchers an even broader array of solutions for GPCR screening, profiling and other cellular studies,” said Nick Ecos, vice president and general manager of Invitrogen’s Discovery Sciences business.

“The synergy created by combining Invitrogen’s cell and molecular biology products with Sentigen’s cell-based technologies and custom services enhances our strategic commitment to scientists engaged in cell-based drug discovery by offering our clients comprehensive solutions and support,” said Tom Livelli, Sentigen’s president and chief executive officer.

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including the approval of Sentigen’s stockholders, and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of this year.