Merck KGaA has entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. for two DNA-dependent protein kinase inhibitors - M9831 formerly known as VX-984 and an additional pre-clinical compound - in the field of gene editing for six specific genetic disease indications. Merck will receive an upfront payment in addition to milestones and royalties on future net sales and retains the rights to both assets in all other disease areas, including oncology, with the ability to develop both these compounds in-house, or to license them to future partners in the gene editing field. Vertex has the option to add indications to the license grant.