For 30 years, SBI has been dedicated to the development of biotech products derived from its cell-differentiation technology and proprietary human cell-line(s).
Dr. Ramesh G. Shah, Founder and President, helped develop a technology for an anti-tumor product (PB-1), which involved immortalization of a particular type of human (lymphoid) blood cells without using external stimulating agents. These cells can be continuously grown in culture flasks or on a larger scale in bioreactors. These cells are also found to secrete other useful products, in addition to the anti-tumor product, for the alleviation of specific diseases.
The development of PB-1 has been a lifelong effort for Dr. Shah and his wife and colleague, Daksha. The journey began while they both worked at world-renowned Sloan Kettering Institute in New York City in the 1970’s. Making his initial observations on cancerous cell properties and the body’s immunologic responses, Dr. Shah decided to focus his energies on further developing his ideas through the newly emerging field of biotechnology. In the early 80’s, with the backing of prominent Philadelphia investors, a small start-up company was formed around Dr. Shah’s research and technology, now called PB-1. By the early 90’s, the company and its board mutually decided to part ways and SBI was born.
As a result, SBI acquired exclusive and irrevocable licensing rights and title to the anti-tumor product (PB-1), producing cell-line and other cell-lines, as well as all products of the cell-lines, from the parent company. From the development of the basic technology, discovery of the product, production, purification and anti-tumor as well as toxicity studies in animal experiments, about five million dollars were spent by the parent company. All earlier scientific efforts and financial resources were focused mainly on the discovery and development of the anti-tumor product (PB-1). While carrying out this activity and also following the acquisition, SBI has explored and identified other useful products emanating from the basic technology, through strategic alliances and collaborations.
SBI retains all proprietary rights to the products produced from this technology, but it is now looking for a trusted and committed partner to bring their significant work to market.
