Novella Clinical announced today the acquisition of Prologue Research International, Inc. (Prologue) an Ohio-based full service Clinical Research Organization (CRO) that focuses exclusively on oncology drug development.“The acquisition of Prologue strengthens our oncology therapeutic franchise and is a strategic addition to our earlier announced deal this year with OSI Pharmaceuticals,” says Richard Staub, President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Staub continues, “Prologue’s experience includes the management of more than 120 oncology trials across a wide variety of indications with a customer base that does not overlap with Novella Clinical’s. With Prologue, Novella will expand its support to oncology Sponsors with the creation of a dedicated business unit focused exclusively on oncology drug development, with the objective of bringing much needed products to market to improve the lives of people with cancer.”

Tom Ludlam, Prologue’s President and CEO, states, “We are excited to be joining forces with Novella Clinical. Combining Prologue’s experienced oncology team with Novella Clinical’s oncology team, their infrastructure and e-based technology allows us to better serve current and future customers in the design and execution of complex oncology programs across geographic regions. As important, Novella Clinical and Prologue share a common culture, centered on customer service and executional excellence.”

Both Novella Clinical and Prologue Research have been providing contract research services for biotechnology, pharmaceutical and device companies for 12 years. The acquisition will add approximately 60 staff to Novella’s global base of 738 professionals, and an office located in Columbus, Ohio.

About Novella Clinical

For over a decade, Novella Clinical has been an active partner in supporting the biopharma and medical device industries with early phase through post-marketing development programs. Although our clinical experience is all-inclusive, our eClinical roots enable us to offer services that are specific to our clients’ needs, often eliminating the demand to contract with multiple partners. From protocol development through final clinical study report — we integrate deep clinical expertise with industry-leading technologies and a proven approach to support, streamline and expertly resource the entire product development process. Our focus on quality customer service is reflected in our certification by Underwriters Laboratories on meeting global quality standards (ISO 9001:2008). For more information, visit www.novellaclinical.com.

About Prologue Research International

Prologue Research is a leading global oncology contract research organization (CRO) founded in 1998. The company offers a full range of clinical research services for Phase I-IV clinical trials in oncology. Prologue provides its clients with world-class experience, a deeply qualified staff, and state-of-the-art systems uniquely designed for complicated oncology trials. Prologue offers the expertise, service and talent that enables our sponsors to make an impact in the lives of people with cancer.

About Edgemont Capital Partners

Edgemont Capital Partners, a leading healthcare investment banking firm, acted as exclusive financial advisor to the shareholders of Prologue.

CONTACT:

At Edgemont Capital Partners
Luke J. Mitchell, Vice President
Phone: 212-867-8935 Fax: 212-214-0918

Jeff B. Swearingen, Managing Director
Phone: 212-867-8935 Fax: 212-937-3816