The company's purpose is to research, develop, manufacture, purchase and sell products and technologies in the fields of biotechnology, pharmacy, diagnostics and therapy. Furthermore, the company may file, acquire, hold and sell patents or any other intellectual property rights as well as acquire, hold and grant licenses. The company may establish branches and subsidiaries and may participate in other companies, both in Switzerland and abroad, and in general, carry out any activity directly or indirectly related to its purpose. The company may acquire, hold and dispose of real estate, both in Switzerland and abroad. It may carry out, either on its own account or on behalf of third parties, all financial transactions as well as provide guarantees or warranties for subsidiaries or third parties.