CORPORATE PROFILE

Robert Vivian, B.A., MBA
President and CEO

Charles T. Ladoulis, MD
Chief Scientific Officer

NATURE OF BUSINESS

TNB Laboratories Inc. (TNB) uses its expertise in immunology and molecular biology to develop, produce, and market monoclonal antibodies (mAb) for in vitro diagnostic use. TNB's primary products are blood test kits. These kits have applications in bone marrow transplantation (BMT) matching and the diagnosis/prognosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients. Additionally, TNB undertakes custom mAb development and production for its clients.

COMPANY BACKGROUND

TNB Laboratories Inc. is a privately-held company based in St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada. Begun as a small but experienced research and development organization in 1988, TNB was founded by a group of Memorial University of Newfoundland scientists and researchers, together with Seabright Corporation Limited, Memorial's technology transfer company.

In 1989, TNB began developing monoclonal antibodies against HLA-DP for diagnostic use in tissue typing, particularly for BMT matching. Involved with both the General Hospital and the University, the company has professional experience in clinical work and basic medical science. This diversity gives TNB the foundation needed to undertake clinically related studies, aimed at creating products for health care and for medical research.

FACILITIES

The company's research, development and production facility is located within the Health Sciences Centre, a single building housing Memorial University of Newfoundland's Faculty of Medicine and the St. John's General Hospital. Research, development and production work is being performed in separate laboratories located at the Centre. TNB's business offices are located near campus in St. John's.

CURRENT ACTIVITIES

TNB Laboratories Inc. began an active promotion of its products and services since May 1995. The immediate priority markets that have been identified are the U.S., Canada, Europe and Japan. TNB has been certified to ISO 9002 for the manufacture of monoclonal antibodies and in vitro diagnostic kits. We have achieved Health Canada Notification allowing products to be sold clinically in Canada. The process of FDA registration is ongoing.

PRODUCTS/SERVICES

TNB has developed new reagents for HLA typing. The Company has produced a set of monoclonal antibodies against the polymorphisms of HLA-DP that will allow tissue typing to be done by serological methods. This will play a crucial role in matching bone marrow transplant donors/recipients and can deliver valuable knowledge that may be more immunologically relevant than using molecular techniques alone.

TNB's research into the Human Leucocyte Antigen, HLA-DR4, has resulted in production of monoclonal antibodies capable of recognizing the specific subsets of the HLA system that are associated with an individual's susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis. Since May 1995, the company has begun marketing the NovaPRO test kit which has the potential to play a key role in both the diagnosis and prognosis of rheumatoid arthritis patients. The kit can help Rheumatologists identify patients at risk of severe rheumatoid arthritis so treatment may be tailored for each. Enhanced quality of life for the patient is the goal.

The BMT and NovaPRO kits are exclusive to TNB and are unique worldwide.

TNB offers other specialized services related to production and research such as contract manufacturing and investigative R&D mAb development for its customers. TNB also provides genetic testing in cases of disputed paternity.

MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS

TNB's research team is one of the most capable in the world in HLA monoclonal antibody development. The company has established considerable expertise in two complementary areas; preparation of complex molecules by the methods of molecular biology, and the creation of monoclonal antibodies against particular parts of these complex molecules.

COLLABORATIVE AGREEMENTS

TNB Laboratories Inc. has a worldwide (17 country) distribution network in place. However, the company seeks to expand upon its international base and interested potential distributors are invited to contact TNB.

TNB wishes to increase its work in custom contract manufacturing and looks to identify organizations interested in testing TNB Laboratories's products and confirming their benefits.

COMPANY SUMMARY

• Sales Volume/yr : $500,000 - $1,000,000
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• R&D Expenditure/yr : 10% of Sales
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• Employees : 12
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• Facilities : 3000 sq. ft.

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TNB Laboratories P.O. Box 13340 St. John's, NF CANADA A1B 4B7 Tel: 709-737-4026 Fax: 709-737-2101
Toll FREE (North America): 1-800-851-1677

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