Once again, the diagnostics company is thumbing its nose as Franz Humer and his persistent pursuit. Yesterday, Ventana issued a statement expressing annoyance at the drugmaker for refusing to go away. That’s because Roche extended its $3 billion, unsolicited offer for a fourth time - from November 1 to January 17.

In a tart statement, Ventana ceo Chris Gleeson says that “more than 99.5 percent of our investors have now essentially turned down Roche’s inadequate offer four times, and yet Roche persists with its futile and costly tactics”. He adds that “virtually all of our investors agree with us that $75.00 is a non-starter and they recognise that we are gaining real momentum in our marketplace”.

Gleeson (that’s him in the photo) goes on to add that the board continues to recommend shareholders not tender any of their shares to Roche and “reinforces its commitment to providing superior value by continuing to successfully execute on its strategic plan and capitalise on the many opportunities ahead.” He praises the firm’s staff “who are continuing to perform extremely well despite the potential for distraction, and we are grateful to our shareholders for their continued support.”

And just why did Franz extend the offer. Less than 0.2 percent of Ventana’s 35 million outstanding shares were tendered into the Roche offer after the third extension. So will Franz raise the bid? He recently said no. But maybe he’ll change his mind.