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                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.17


                       STANDARD INDUSTRIAL LEASE -- GROSS

                   AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATION

1. PARTIES. This Lease, dated, for reference purposes only, November 2, 1998, is
made by and between Westlake Development Company, Inc. (herein called "Lessor")
and Transgenomic, Inc. (herein called "Lessee").

2. PREMISES. Lessor hereby leases to Lessee and Lessee leases from Lessor for
the term, at the rental, and upon all of the conditions set forth herein, that
certain real property situated in the County of Santa Clara, State of California
commonly known as 2030 Concourse Drive, San Jose and described as Containing
approximately 5,250 square feet of light industrial space being a part of a
larger building.

Said real property including the land and all improvements therein, is herein
called "the Premises."

3. TERM.

     3.1 TERM. The term of this Lease shall be for forty three (43) months
commencing on November 1, 1988 and ending on May 31, 2002 unless sooner
terminated pursuant to any provision hereof.

     3.2 DELAY IN POSSESSION. Notwithstanding said commencement date, if for any
reason Lessor cannot deliver possession of the Premises to Lessee on said date,
Lessor shall not be subject to any liability therfor, nor shall such failure
affect the validity of this Lease or the obligations of Lessee hereunder or
extend the term hereof, but in such case, Lessee shall not be obligated to pay
rent until possession of the Premises is tendered to Lessee provided, however,
that if Lessor shall not have delivered possession of the Premises within sixty
(60) days from said commencement date, Lessee may, at Lessee's option, by notice
in writing to Lessor within ten (10) days thereafter, cancel this Lease, in
which event the parties shall be discharged from all obligations hereunder;
provided further, however, that if such written notice of Lessee is not received
by Lessor within said ten (10) day period, Lessee's right to cancel this Lease
hereunder shall terminate and be of no further force or effect.

     3.3 EARLY POSSESSION. If Lessee occupies the Premises prior to said
commencement date, such occupancy shall be subject to all provisions hereof,
such occupancy shall not advance the termination date, and Lessee shall pay rent
for such period at the initial monthly rates set forth below.

4. RENT. Lessee shall pay to Lessor as rent for the Premises, monthly payments
of $7,297.50, in advance, on the first day of each month of the term hereof.
Lessee shall pay Lessor upon the execution hereof $7,297.50 as rent for November
1, 1998 through November 30, 1998

See Addendum #47 for rent schedule

Rent for any period during the term hereof which is for less than one month
shall be a pro rata portion of the monthly installment. Rent shall be payable in
lawful money of the United States to Lessor at the address stated herein or to
such other persons or at such other places as Lessor may designate in writing.

5. SECURITY DEPOSIT. Lessee shall deposit with Lessor upon execution hereof
$7,297.50 as security for Lessee's faithful performance of Lessee's obligations
hereunder. If Lessee fails to pay rent or other charges due hereunder, or
otherwise defaults with respect to any provision of this Lease, Lessor may use,
apply or retain all or any portion of said deposit for the payment of any rent
or other charge in default or for the payment of any other sum to which Lessor
may become obligated by reason of Lessee's default, or to compensate Lessor for
any loss or damage which Lessor may suffer thereby. If Lessor so uses or applies
all or any portion of said deposit, Lessee shall within ten (10) days after
written demand therefor deposit cash with Lessor in an amount sufficient to
restore said deposit to the full amount hereinabove stated and Lessee's failure
to do so shall be a material breach of this Lease. If the monthly rent shall,
from time to time, increase during the term of this Lease, Lessee shall
thereupon deposit with Lessor additional security deposit so that the amount of
security deposit held by Lessor shall at all times bear the same proportion to
current rent as the original security deposit bears to the original monthly rent
set forth in paragraph 4 hereof. Lessor shall not be required to keep said
deposit separate from its general accounts. If Lessee performs all of Lessee's
obligations hereunder, said deposit, or so much thereof as has not theretofore
been applied by Lessor, shall be returned, without payment of interest or other
increment for its use, to Lessee (or, at Lessor's option, to the last assignee,
if any, of Lessee's interest hereunder) at the expiration of the term hereof,
and after


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Lessee has vacated the Premises. No trust relationship is created herein between
Lessor and Lessee with respect to said Security Deposit.

6. USE.

         6.1 USE. The Premises shall be used and occupied only for manufacturing
and sales of chromatograph products and related legal uses, or any other use
which is reasonably comparable and for no other purpose.

         6.2  COMPLIANCE WITH LAW.

         (a) Lessor warrants to Lessee that the Premises, in its state existing
on the date that the Lease term commences, but without regard to the use for
which Lessee will use the Premises, does not violate any covenants or
restrictions of record, or any applicable building code, regulation or ordinance
in effect on such Lease term commencement date. In the event it is determined
that this warranty has been violated, then it shall be the obligation of the
Lessor, after written notice from Lessee, to promptly, at Lessor's sole cost and
expense, rectify any such violation. In the event Lessee does not give to Lessor
written notice of the violation of this warranty within six months from the date
that the Lease term commences, the correction of same shall be the obligation of
the Lessee at Lessee's sole cost. The warranty contained in this paragraph
6.2(a) shall be of no force or effect if, prior to the date of this Lease,
Lessee was the owner or occupant of the Premises, and, in such event, Lessee
shall correct any such violation at Lessee's sole cost.

         (b) Except as provided in paragraph 6.2(a), Lessee shall, at Lessee's
expense, comply promptly with all applicable statutes, ordinances, rules,
regulations, orders, covenants and restrictions of record, and requirements in
effect during the term or any part of the term hereof, regulating the use by
Lessee of the Premises. Lessee shall not use nor permit the use of the Premises
in any manner that will tend to create waste or a nuisance or, if there shall be
more than one tenant in the building containing the Premises, shall tend to
disturb such other tenants.

         6.3  CONDITION OF PREMISES.

         (a) Lessor shall deliver the Premises to Lessee clean and free of
debris on Lease commencement date (unless Lessee is already in possession) and
Lessor further warrants to Lessee that the plumbing, lighting, air conditioning,
heating, and loading doors in the Premises shall be in good operating condition
on the Lease commencement date. In the event that it is determined that this
warranty has been violated, then it shall be the obligation of Lessor, after
receipt of written notice from Lessee setting forth with specificity the nature
of the violation, to promptly, at Lessor's sole cost, rectify such violation.
Lessee's failure to give such written notice to Lessor within thirty (30) days
after the Lease commencement date shall cause the conclusive _____________ that
Lessor has _____________ with all of Lessor's obligations hereunder. The
warranty contained in this paragraph 6.3(a) ________________________ was the
owner of occupant of the Premises.

         (b) Except as otherwise provided in this Lease, Lessee hereby accepts
the Premises in their condition existing as of the Lease commencement date or
the date that Lessee takes possession of the Premises, whichever is earlier,
subject to all applicable zoning, municipal county and state laws, ordinances
and regulations governing and regulating the use of the Premises, and any
covenants or restrictions of record and accepts this lease subject thereto and
to all matters disclosed thereby and by any exhibits attached hereto. Lessee
acknowledges that neither Lessor nor Lessor's agent has made any representation
or warranty as to the present or future suitability of the Premises for the
conduct of the Lessee's business.

7. MAINTENANCE, REPAIRS AND ALTERATIONS.

         7.1 LESSOR'S OBLIGATIONS. Subject to the provisions of Paragraphs 6,
7.2, and 9 and except for damage caused by any negligent or intentional act or
omission of Lessee, Lessee's agents, employees, or invitees in which event
Lessee shall repair the damage, Lessor, at Lessor's expense shall keep in good
order, condition and repair the foundations, exterior walls and the exterior
roof of the Premises. Lessor shall not, however, be obligated to paint such
exterior, nor shall Lessor be required to maintain the interior surface of
exterior walls, windows, doors or plate glass. Lessor shall have no obligation
to make repairs under this Paragraph 7.1 until a reasonable time after receipt
of written notice of the need for such repairs. Lessee expressly waives the
benefits of any statute now or hereafter in effect which would otherwise afford
Lessee the right to make repairs at Lessor's expense or to terminate this Lease
because of Lessor's failure to keep the Premises in good order, condition and
repair.


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         7.2  LESSEE'S OBLIGATIONS.

         (a) Subject to the provisions of Paragraphs 6, 7.1 and 9, Lessee, at
Lessee's expense, shall keep in good order, condition and repair the Premises
and every part thereof (whether or not the damaged portion of the Premises or
the means of repairing the same are reasonably or readily accessible to Lessee)
including, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, all plumbing,
heating, air conditioning, (Lessee shall procure and maintain, at Lessee's
expense, an air conditioning system maintenance contract) ventilating,
electrical and lighting facilities and equipment within the Premises, fixtures,
interior walls and interior surface of exterior walls, ceilings, windows, doors,
plate glass, and skylights located within the Premises, and all landscaping,
driveways, parking lots, fences and signs located in the Premises and all
sidewalks and parkways adjacent to the Premises.

         (b) If Lessee fails to perform Lessee's obligations under this
Paragraph 7.2 or under any other paragraph of this Lease, Lessor may at Lessor's
option enter upon the Premises after 10 days' prior written notice to Lessee
(except in the case of emergency, in which case no notice shall be required),
perform such obligations on Lessee's behalf and put the Premises in good order,
condition and repair, and the cost thereof together with interest thereon at the
maximum rate then allowable by law shall be due and payable as additional rent
to Lessor together with Lessee's next rental installment.

         (c) On the last day of the term hereof, or on any sooner termination,
Lessee shall surrender the Premises to Lessor in the same condition as received,
ordinary wear and tear excepted, clean and free of debris. Lessee shall repair
any damage to the Premises occasioned by the installation or removal of its
trade fixtures, furnishings and equipment. Notwithstanding anything to the
contrary otherwise stated in this Lease Lessee shall leave the air lines, power
panels, electrical distribution systems, lighting fixtures, space heaters, air
conditioning, plumbing and fencing on the premises in good operating condition.

         7.3  ALTERATIONS AND ADDITIONS.

         (a) Lessee shall not, without Lessor's prior written consent make any
alterations, improvements, additions, or Utility installations in, on or about
the Premises, except for nonstructural alterations not exceeding $5,000 in
cumulative costs during the term of this Lease. In any event, whether or not in
excess of $5,000 in cumulative costs, Lessee shall make no change or alteration
to the exterior of the Premises nor the exterior of the building(s) on the
Premises without Lessor's prior written consent. As used in this Paragraph 7.3
the term "Utility installation" shall mean carpeting, window coverings, air
lines, power panels, electrical distribution systems, lighting fixtures, space
heaters, air conditioning, plumbing, and fencing. Lessor may require that Lessee
remove any or all of said alterations, improvements, additions or Utility
installations at the expiration of the term, and restore the Premises to their
prior condition. Lessor may require Lessee to provide Lessor, at Lessee's sole
cost and expense, a lien and completion bond in an amount equal to one and
one-half times the estimated cost of such improvements, to insure Lessor against
any liability for mechanic's and materialmen's liens and to insure completion of
the work. Should Lessee make any alterations, improvements, additions or Utility
Installations without the prior approval of Lessor, Lessor may require that
Lessee remove any or all of the same.

         (b) Any alterations, improvements, additions or Utility Installations
in, or about the Premises that Lessee shall desire to make and which requires
the consent of the Lessor shall be presented to Lessor in written form, with
proposed detailed plans. If Lessor shall give its consent, the consent shall be
deemed conditioned upon Lessee acquiring a permit to do so from appropriate
governmental agencies, the furnishing of a copy thereof to Lessor prior to the
commencement of the work and the compliance by Lessee of all conditions of said
permit in a prompt and expeditious manner.

         (c) Lessee shall pay, when due, all claims for labor or materials
furnished or alleged to have been furnished to or for Lessee at or for use in
the Premises, which claims are or may be secured by any mechanics' or
materialmen's lien against the Premises or any interest therein. Lessee shall
give Lessor not less than ten (10) days' notice prior to the commencement of any
work in the Premises, and Lessor shall have the right to post notices of
non-responsibility in or on the Premises as provided by law. If Lessee shall, in
good faith, contest the validity of any such lien, claim or demand, then Lessee
shall, at its sole expense defend itself and Lessor against the same and shall
pay and satisfy any such adverse judgment that may be rendered thereon before
the enforcement thereof against the Lessor or the Premises, upon the condition
that if Lessor shall require, Lessee shall furnish to Lessor a surety bond
satisfactory to Lessor in an amount equal to such contested lien claim or demand
indemnifying Lessor against liability for the same and holding the Premises free
from the effect of such lien or claim. In addition, Lessor



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may require Lessee to pay Lessor's attorneys fees and costs in participating in
such action if Lessor shall decide it is to its best interest to do so.

         (d) Unless Lessor requires their removal, as set forth in Paragraph
7.3(a), all alterations, improvements, additions and Utility Installations
(whether or not such Utility Installations constitute trade fixtures of Lessee),
which may be made on the Premises, shall become the property of Lessor and
remain upon and be surrendered with the Premises at the expiration of the term.
Notwithstanding the provisions of this Paragraph 7.3(d), Lessee's machinery and
equipment, other than that which is affixed to the Premises so that it cannot be
removed without material damage to the Premises, shall remain the property of
Lessee and may be removed by Lessee subject to the provisions of Paragraph
7.2(c).

8. INSURANCE; INDEMNITY.

         8.1 LIABILITY INSURANCE - LESSEE. Lessee shall, at Lessee's expense,
obtain and keep in force during the term of this Lease a policy of Combined
Single Limit Bodily Injury and Property Damage Insurance insuring Lessee and
Lessor against any liability arising out of the use, occupancy or maintenance of
the Premises and all other areas appurtenant thereto. Such insurance shall be in
an amount not less than $500,000 per occurrence. The policy shall insure
performance by Lessee of the indemnity provisions of this Paragraph 8. The
limits of said insurance shall not, however, limit the liability of Lessee
hereunder.

         8.2 LIABILITY INSURANCE - LESSOR. Lessor shall obtain and keep in force
during the term of this Lease a policy of Combined Single Limit Bodily Injury
and Property Damage Insurance, insuring Lessor, but not Lessee, against any
liability arising out of the ownership, use, occupancy or maintenance of the
Premises and all areas appurtenant thereto in an amount not less than $500,000
per occurrence.

         8.3 PROPERTY INSURANCE. Lessor shall obtain and keep in force during
the term of this Lease a policy or policies of insurance covering loss or damage
to the Premises, but not Lessee's fixtures, equipment or tenant improvements in
an amount not to exceed the full replacement value thereof, as the same may
exist from time to time, providing protection against all perils included within
the classification of fire, extended coverage, vandalism, malicious mischief,
flood (in the event same is required by a lender having a lien on the Premises)
special extended perils ("all risk", as such term is used in the insurance
industry) but not plate glass insurance. In addition, the Lessor shall obtain
and keep in force, during the term of this Lease, a policy of rental value
insurance covering a period of one year, with loss payable to Lessor, which
insurance shall also cover all real estate taxes and insurance costs for said
period.

         8.4  PAYMENT OF PREMIUM INCREASE.

         (a) Lessee shall pay to Lessor, during the term hereof, in addition to
the rent, the amount of any increase in premiums for the insurance required
under Paragraphs 8.2 and 8.3 over and above such premiums paid during the Base
period, as hereinafter defined, whether such premium increased shall be the
result of the nature of Lessee's occupancy, any act or omission of Lessee,
requirements of the holder of a mortgage or deed of trust covering the Premises,
increased valuation of the Premises, or general rate increases. In the event
that the Premises have been occupied previously, the words "Base Period" shall
mean the last twelve months of the prior occupancy. In the event that the
Premises have never been previously occupied, the premiums during the "Base
period" shall be deemed to be the lowest premiums reasonably obtainable for said
insurance assuming the most nominal use of the Premises. Provided, however, in
lieu of the Base Period, the parties may insert a dollar amount at the end of
this sentence which figure shall be considered as the insurance premium for the
Base Period: $__________________. In no event, however, shall Lessee be
responsible for any portion of the premium cost attributable to liability
insurance in excess of $1,000,000 procured under paragraph 8.2.

         (b) Lessee shall pay any such premium increases to Lessor within 30
days after receipt by Lessee of a copy of the premium statement or other
satisfactory evidence of the amount due. If the insurance policies maintained
hereunder cover other improvements in addition the Premises, Lessor shall also
deliver to Lessee a statement of the amount of such increase attributable to the
Premises and showing in reasonable detail, the manner in which such amount was
computed. If the term of this Lease shall not expire concurrently with the
expiration of the period covered by such insurance, Lessee's liability for
premium increases shall be prorated on an annual basis.

         (c) If the Premises are part of a larger building, then Lessee shall
not be responsible for paying any increase in the property insurance premium
caused by the acts or omissions of any other tenant of the building of which the
Premises are a part.


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         8.5 INSURANCE POLICIES. Insurance required hereunder shall be in
companies holding a "General Policyholders Rating" of at least B plus, or such
other rating as may be required by a lender having a lien on the Premises, as
set forth in the most current issue of "Best's Insurance Guide" Lessee shall
deliver to Lessor copies of policies of liability insurance required under
Paragraph 8.1 or certificates evidencing the existence and amounts of such
insurance. No such policy shall be cancellable or subject to reduction of
coverage or other modification except after thirty (30) days' prior written
notice to Lessor. Lessee shall, at least thirty (30) days prior to the
expiration of such policies, furnish Lessor with renewals or days' prior written
notice to Lessor. Lessees shall, at thirty (30) days prior to the expiration of
such policies, furnish Lessor with renewals or "binders" thereof, or Lessor may
order such insurance and charge the cost thereof to Lessee, which amount shall
be payable by Lessee upon demand. Lessee shall not do or permit to be done
anything which shall invalidate the insurance policies referred to in Paragraph
8.3.

         8.6 WAIVER OF SUBROGATION. Lessee and Lessor each hereby release and
relieve the other, and waive their entire right of recovery against the other
for loss or damage arising out of or incident to the perils insured against
_______ paragraph 8.3, which perils occur in, on or about the Premises, whether
due to the negligence of_______________ and/or_________________ Lessee and
Lessor shall, upon obtaining the policies of insurance required hereunder,
give notice to the insurance carrier or carriers that the foregoing mutual
waiver of subrogation is contained in this Lease.

         8.7 INDEMNITY. Lessee shall indemnify and hold harmless Lessor from and
against any and all claims arising from Lessee's use of the Premises, or from
the conduct of Lessee's business or from any activity, work or things done,
permitted or suffered by Lessee in or about the Premises or elsewhere and shall
further indemnify and hold harmless Lessor from and against any and all claims
arising from any breach of default in the performance of any obligation on
Lessee's part to be performed under the terms of this Lease, or arising from any
negligence of the Lessee, or any of Lessee's agents, contractors, or employees,
and from and against all costs, attorney's fees, expenses and liabilities
incurred in the defense of any such claim or any action or proceeding brought
thereon, and in case any action or proceeding be brought against Lessor by
reason of any such claim, Lessee upon notice from Lessor shall defend the same
at Lessee's expense by counsel satisfactory to Lessor. Lessee, as a material
part of the consideration to Lessor, hereby assumes all risk of damage to
property or injury to persons, in, upon or about the Premises arising from any
cause and Lessee hereby waives all claims in respect thereof against Lessor,
excluding damages caused by negligence of Lessor.

         8.8 EXEMPTION OF LESSOR FROM LIABILITY. Lessee hereby agrees that
Lessor shall not be liable for injury to Lessee's business or any loss of income
therefrom or for damage to the goods, wares, merchandise or other property of
Lessee. Lessee's employees, invitees, customers, or any other person in or about
the Premises, nor shall Lessor be liability for injury to the person of Lessee.
Lessee's employees, agents or contractors, whether such damage or injury is
caused by or results from fire, steam, electricity, gas, water or rain, or from
the breakage, leakage, obstruction or other defects of pipes, sprinklers, wires,
appliances, plumbing, air conditioning or lighting fixtures, or from any other
cause, whether the said damage or injury results from conditions arising upon
the Premises or upon other portions of the building of which the Premises are a
part, or from other sources or places and regardless of whether the cause of
such damage or injury or the means of repairing the same is inaccessible to
Lessee. Lessor shall not be liable for any damages arising from any act or
neglect of any other tenant, if any, of the building in which the Premises are
located.

9. DAMAGE OR DESTRUCTION.

         9.1 DEFINITIONS.

         (a) "Premises Partial Damage" shall herein mean damage or destruction
to the Premises to the extent that the cost of repair is less than 50% of the
fair market value of the Premises immediately prior to such damage or
destruction. "Premises Building Partial Damage" shall herein mean damage or
destruction to the building of which the Premises are a part to the extent that
the cost of repair is less than 50% of the fair market value of such building as
a whole immediately prior to such damage or destruction.

         (b) "Premises Total Destruction" shall herein mean damage or
destruction to the Premises to the extent that the total cost of repair is 50%
or more of the fair market value of the Premises immediately prior to such
damage or destruction. "Premises Building Total Destruction" shall herein mean
damage or destruction to the building of which the Premises are a part to the
extent that the cost of repair is 50% or more of the fair market value of such
building as a whole immediately prior to such damage or destruction.


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         (c) "Insured Loss" shall herein mean damage or destruction which was
caused by an event required to be covered by the insurance described in
paragraph 8.

         9.2 PARTIAL DAMAGE -- INSURED LOSS. Subject to the provisions of
paragraphs 9.4, 9.5 and 9.6, if at any time during the term of this Lease there
is damage which is an Insured Loss and which falls into the classification of
Premises Partial Damage or Premises Building Partial Damage, then Lessor shall,
at Lessor's sole cost, repair such damage, but not Lessee's fixtures, equipment
or tenant improvements, as soon as reasonably possible and this Lease shall
continue in full force and effect.

         9.3 PARTIAL DAMAGE -- UNINSURED LOSS. Subject to the provisions of
paragraphs 9.4, 9.5 and 9.6, if at any time during the term of this Lease there
is damage which is not an Insured Loss and which falls within the classification
of Premises Partial Damage or Premises Building Partial Damage, unless caused by
a negligent or willful act of Lessee (in which event Lessee shall make the
repairs at Lessee's expense), Lessor may at Lessor's option either (i) repair
such damage as soon as reasonably possible at Lessor's expense, in which event
this Lease shall continue in full force and effect, or (ii) give written notice
to Lessee within thirty (30) days after the date of the occurrence of such
damage of Lessor's intention to cancel and terminate this Lease, as of the date
of the occurrence of such damage. In the event Lessor elects to give such notice
of Lessee's intention to cancel and terminate this Lease. Lessee shall have the
right within ten (10) days after the receipt of such notice to give written
notice to Lessor of Lessee's intention to repair such damage at Lessee's
expense, without reimbursement from Lessor, in which event this Lease shall
continue in full force and effect, and Lessee shall proceed to make such repairs
as soon as reasonably possible. If Lessee does not give such notice within such
10-day period this Lease shall be cancelled and terminated as of the date of the
occurrence of such damage.

         9.4 TOTAL DESTRUCTION. If at any time during the term of this Lease
there is damage, whether or not an Insured Loss, (including destruction required
by any authorized public authority), which falls into the classification of
Premises Total Destruction or Premises Building Total Destruction, this Lease
shall automatically terminate as of the date of such total destruction.

         9.5  DAMAGE NEAR END OF TERM.

         (a) If at any time during the last six months of the term of this Lease
there is damage, whether or not an Insured Loss, which falls within the
classification of Premises Partial Damage, Lessor may at Lessor's option cancel
and terminate this Lease as of the date of occurrence of such damage by giving
written notice to Lessee of Lessor's election to do so within 30 days after the
date of occurrence of such damage in excess of $20,000.

         (b) Notwithstanding paragraph 9.5(a), in the event that Lessee has an
option to extend or renew this Lease, and the time within which said option may
be exercised has not yet expired, Lessee shall exercise such option, if it is to
be exercised at all, no later than 20 days after the occurrence of an Insured
Loss falling within the classification of Premises Partial Damage during the
last six months of the term of this Lease. If Lessee duly exercises such option
during said 20 day period, Lessor shall, at Lessor's expense, repair such damage
as soon as reasonably possible and this Lease shall continue in full force and
effect. If Lessee fails to exercise such option during said 20 day period, then
Lessor may at Lessor's option terminate and cancel this Lease as of the
expiration of said 20 day period by giving written notice to Lessee of Lessor's
election to do so within 10 days after the expiration of said 20 day period,
notwithstanding any term or provision in the grant of option to the contrary.

         9.6  ABATEMENT OF RENT; LESSEE'S REMEDIES.

         (a) In the event of damage described in paragraphs 9.2 or 9.3, and
Lessor or Lessee repairs or restores the Premises pursuant to the provisions of
this Paragraph 9, the rent payable hereunder for the period during which such
damage, repair or restoration continues shall be abated in proportion to the
degree to which Lessee's use of the Premises is impaired. Except for abatement
of rent, if any, Lessee shall have no claim against Lessor for any damage
suffered by reason of any such damage, destruction, repair or restoration,
except damage caused by Lessor.

         (b) If Lessor shall be obligated to repair or restore the Premises
under the provisions of this Paragraph 9 and shall not commence such repair or
restoration within 90 days after such obligations shall accrue, Lessee may at
Lessee's option cancel and terminate this Lease by giving Lessor written notice
of Lessee's election to do so at any time prior to the commencement of such
repair or restoration. In such event this Lease shall terminate as of the date
of such notice.

         9.7 TERMINATION -- ADVANCE PAYMENTs. Upon termination of this Lease
pursuant to this Paragraph 9, an equitable adjustment shall be made concerning
advance rent and any advance payments made by Lessee to Lessor.



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Lessor shall, in addition, return to Lessee so much of Lessee's security deposit
as has not theretofore been applied by Lessor.

         9.8 WAIVER. Lessor and Lessee waive the provisions of any statutes
which relate to termination of leases when leased property is destroyed and
agree that such event shall be governed by the terms of this Lease.

10.  REAL PROPERTY TAXES.

         10.1 PAYMENT OF TAX INCREASE. Lessor shall pay the real property tax,
as defined in paragraph 10.3, applicable to the Premises; provided, however,
that Lessee shall pay, in addition to rent, the amount, if any, by which real
property taxes applicable to the Premises increase over the fiscal real estate
tax year 1998, 1999. Such payment shall be made by Lessee within thirty (30)
days after receipt of Lessor's written statement setting forth the amount of
such increase and the computation thereof. if the term of this Lease shall not
expire concurrently with the expiration of the tax fiscal year, Lessee's
liability for increased taxes for the last partial lease year shall be prorated
on an annual basis.

         10.2 ADDITIONAL IMPROVEMENTS. Notwithstanding paragraph 10.1 hereof,
Lessee shall pay to Lessor upon demand therefor the entirety of any increase in
real property tax if assessed solely by reason of additional improvements placed
upon the Premises by Lessee or at Lessee's request.

         10.3 DEFINITION OF "REAL PROPERTY TAX". As used herein, the term "real
property tax" shall include any form of real estate tax or assessment, general,
special, ordinary or extraordinary, and any license fee, commercial rental tax,
improvement bond or bonds, levy or tax (other than inheritance, personal income
or estate taxes) imposed on the Premises by any authority having the direct or
indirect power to tax, including any city, state or federal government, or any
school, agricultural, sanitary, fire, street, drainage or other improvement
district thereof, as against any legal or equitable interest of Lessor in the
Premises or in the real property of which the Premises are a part, as against
Lessor's right to rent or other income therefrom, and as against Lessor's
business of leasing the Premises. The term "real property tax" shall also
include any tax, fee, levy, assessment or charge (i) in substitution of,
partially or totally, any tax, fee, levy, assessment or charge hereinabove
included within the definition of "real property tax," or (ii) the nature of
which was hereinbefore included within the definition of "real property tax," or
(iii) which is imposed for a service or right not charged prior to June 1, 1978,
or, if previously charged, has been increased since June 1, 1978, or (iv) which
is imposed as a result of a transfer, either partial or total, of Lessor's
interest in the Premises or which is added to a tax or charge hereinbefore
included within the definition of real property tax by reason of such transfer,
or (v) which is imposed by reason of this transaction, any modifications or
changes hereto, or any transfers hereof.

         10.4 JOINT ASSESSMENT. If the Premises are not separately assessed,
Lessee's liability shall be an equitable proportion of the real property taxes
for all of the land and improvements included within the tax parcel assessed,
such proportion to be determined by Lessor from the respective valuations
assigned in the assessor's work sheets or such other information as may be
reasonably available. Lessor's reasonable determination thereof, in good faith,
shall be conclusive.

         10.5  PERSONAL PROPERTY TAXES.

         (a) Lessee shall pay prior to delinquency all taxes assessed against
and levied upon trade fixtures, furnishings, equipment and all other personal
property of Lessee contained in the Premises or elsewhere. When possible, Lessee
shall cause said trade fixtures, furnishings, equipment and all other personal
property to be assessed and billed separately from the real property of Lessor.

         (b) If any of Lessee's said personal property shall be assessed with
Lessor's real property, Lessee shall pay Lessor the taxes attributable to Lessee
within 10 days after receipt of a written statement setting forth the taxes
applicable to Lessee's property.

11. UTILITIES. Lessee shall pay for all water, gas, heat, light, power,
telephone and other utilities and services supplied to the Premises, together
with any taxes thereon. If any such services are not separately metered to
Lessee, Lessee shall pay a reasonable proportion to be determined by Lessor of
all charges jointly metered with other premises.

12.  ASSIGNMENT AND SUBLETTING.

         12.1 LESSOR'S CONSENT REQUIRED. Lessee shall not voluntarily or by
operation of law assign, transfer, mortgage, sublet, or otherwise transfer or
encumber all or any part of Lessee's interest in this Lease or in the



                                      -7-
<PAGE>

Premises, without Lessor's prior written consent, which Lessor shall not
unreasonably withhold. Lessor shall respond to Lessee's request for consent
hereunder in a timely manner and any attempted assignment, transfer, mortgage,
encumbrance or subletting without such consent shall be void, and shall
constitute a breach of this Lease.

         12.2 LESSEE AFFILIATE. Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 12.1
hereof, Lessee may assign or sublet the Premises, or any portion thereof,
without Lessor's consent, to any corporation which controls, is controlled by or
is under common control with Lessee, or to any corporation resulting from the
merger or consolidation with Lessee, or to any person or entity which acquires
all the assets of Lessee as a going concern of the business that is being
conducted on the Premises, provided that said assignee assumes, in full, the
obligations of Lessee under this Lease. Any such assignment shall not, in any
way, affect or limit the liability of Lessee under the terms of this Lease even
if after such assignment or subletting the terms of this Lease are materially
changed or altered without the consent of Lessee, the consent of whom shall not
be necessary.

         12.3 NO RELEASE OF LESSEE. Regardless of Lessor's consent, no
subletting or assignment shall release Lessee of Lessee's obligation or alter
the primary liability of Lessee to pay the rent and to perform all other
obligations to be performed by Lessee hereunder. The acceptance of rent by
Lessor from any other person shall not be deemed to be a waiver by Lessor of any
provision hereof. Consent to one assignment or subletting shall not be deemed
consent to any subsequent assignment or subletting. In the event of default by
any assignee of Lessee or any successor of Lessee, in the performance of any of
the terms hereof, Lessor may proceed directly against Lessee without the
necessity of exhausting remedies against said assignee. Lessor may consent to
subsequent assignments or subletting of this Lease or amendments or
modifications to this Lease with assignees of Lessee, without notifying Lessee,
or any successor of Lessee, and without obtaining its or their consent thereto
and such action shall not relieve Lessee of liability under this Lease.

         12.4 ATTORNEY'S FEES. In the event Lessee shall assign or sublet the
Premises or request the consent of Lessor to any assignment or subletting or if
Lessee shall request the consent of Lessor for any act Lessee proposes to do
then Lessee shall pay Lessor's reasonable attorneys fees incurred in connection
therewith, such attorneys fees not to exceed $350.00 for each such request.

13. DEFAULTS; REMEDIES.

         13.1 DEFAULTS. The occurrence of any one or more of the following
events shall constitute a material default and breach of this Lease by Lessee:

         (a) The vacating or abandonment of the Premises by Lessee.

         (b) The failure by Lessee to make any payment of rent or any other
payment required to be made by Lessee hereunder, as and when due where such
failure shall continue for a period of three days after written notice thereof
from Lessor to Lessee. In the event that Lessor serves Lessee with a Notice to
Pay Rent or Quit pursuant to applicable Unlawful Detainer statutes such Notice
to Pay Rent or Quit shall also constitute the notice required by this
subparagraph.

         (c) The failure by Lessee to observe or perform any of the covenants,
conditions or provisions of this Lease to be observed or performed by Lessee,
other than described in paragraph (b) above, where such failure shall continue
for a period of 30 days after written notice thereof from Lessor to Lessee;
provided, however, that if the nature of Lessee default is such that more than
30 days are reasonably required for its cure, then Lessee shall not be deemed to
be in default if Lessee commenced such cure within said 30-day period and
thereafter diligently prosecutes such cure to completion.

         (d) (i) The making by Lessee of any general arrangement or assignment
for the benefit or creditors; (ii) Lessee becomes a debtor as defined in 11
U.S.C. Section 101 or any successor statute thereto (unless, in the case of a
petition filed against Lessee, the same is dismissed within 60 days), (iii) the
appointment of a trustee or receiver to take possession of substantially all of
Lessee's assets located at the Premises or of Lessee's interest in this Lease,
where possession is not restored to Lessee within 30 days; or (iv) the
attachment, execution or other judicial seizure of substantially all of Lessee's
assets located at the Premises or of Lessee's interest in this Lease, where such
seizure is not discharged within 30 days. Provided, however, in the event that
any provision of this paragraph 13.1(d) is contrary to any applicable law, such
provision shall be of no force or effect.

         (e) The discovery by Lessor that any financial statement given to
Lessor by Lessee, any assignee of Lessee, any subtenant of Lessee, any successor
in interest of Lessee or any guarantor of Lessee's obligation hereunder, and any
of them, was materially false.


                                      -8-
<PAGE>

         13.2 REMEDIES. In the event of any such material default or breach by
Lessee, Lessor may at any time thereafter, with or without notice or demand and
without limiting Lessor in the exercise of any right or remedy which Lessor may
have by reason of such default or breach.

         (a) Terminate Lessee's right to possession of the Premises by any
lawful means, in which case this Lease shall terminate and Lessee shall
immediately surrender possession of the Premises to Lessor. In such event Lessor
shall be entitled to recover from Lessee all damages incurred by Lessor by
reason of Lessee's default including, but not limited to, the cost of recovering
possession of the Premises; expenses of reletting, including necessary
renovation and alteration of the Premises, reasonable attorney's fees, and any
real estate commission actually paid; the worth at the time of award by the
court having jurisdiction thereof of the amount by which the unpaid rent for the
balance of the term after the time of such award exceeds the amount of such
rental loss from the same period that Lessee proves could be reasonably avoided;
that portion of the leasing commission paid by Lessor pursuant to Paragraph 15
applicable to the unexpired term of this Lease.

         (b) Maintain Lessee's right to possession in which case this Lease
shall continue in effect whether or not Lessee shall have abandoned the
Premises. In such event Lessor shall be entitled to enforce all of Lessor's
rights and remedies under this Lease, including the right to recover the rent as
it becomes due hereunder.

         (c) Pursue any other remedy now or hereafter available to Lessor under
the laws or judicial decisions of the state wherein the Premises are located.
Unpaid installments of rent and other unpaid monetary obligations of Lessee
under the terms of this Lease shall bear interest from the date due at the
maximum rate then allowable by law.

         13.3 DEFAULT BY LESSOR. Lessor shall not be in default unless Lessor
fails to perform obligations required of Lessor within a reasonable time, but in
no event later than thirty (30) days after written notice by Lessee to Lessor
and to the holder of any first mortgage or deed of trust covering the Premises
whose name and address shall have theretofore been furnished to Lessee in
writing, specifying wherein Lessor has failed to perform such obligation;
provided, however, that if the nature of Lessor's obligation is such that more
than thirty (30) days are required for performance then Lessor shall not be in
default if Lessor commences performance within such 30-day period and thereafter
diligently prosecutes the same to completion.

         13.4 LATE CHARGES. Lessee hereby acknowledges that late payment by
Lessee to Lessor of rent and other sums due hereunder will cause Lessor to incur
costs not contemplated by this Lease, the exact amount of which will be
extremely difficult to ascertain. Such costs include, but are not limited to,
processing and accounting charges, and late charges which may be imposed on
Lessor by the terms of any mortgage or trust deed covering the Premises.
Accordingly, if any installment of rent or any other sum due from Lessee shall
not be recovered by Lessor or Lessor's designee within ten (10) days after such
amount shall be due, then, without any requirement for notice to Lessee, Lessee
shall pay to Lessor a late charge equal to 6% of such overdue amount. The
parties hereby agree that such late charge represents a fair and reasonable
estimate of the costs Lessor will incur by reason of late payment by Lessee.
Acceptance of such late charge by Lessor shall in no event constitute a waiver
of Lessee's default with respect to such overdue amount, nor prevent Lessor from
exercising any of the other rights and remedies granted hereunder. In the event
that a late charge is payable hereunder, whether or not collected, for three (3)
consecutive installments of rent, then rent shall automatically become due and
payable quarterly in advance, rather than monthly, notwithstanding paragraph 4
or any other provision of this Lease to the contrary.

         13.5 IMPOUNDS. In the event that a late charge is payable hereunder,
whether or not collected, for three (3) installments of rent or any other
monetary obligation of Lessee under the terms of this Lease, Lessee shall pay to
Lessor, if Lessor shall so request, in addition to any other payments required
under this Lease, a monthly advance installment, payable at the same time as the
monthly rent, as estimated by Lessor, for real property tax and insurance
expenses on the Premises which are payable by Lessee under the terms of this
Lease. Such fund shall be established to insure payment when due, before
delinquency, of any or all such real property taxes and insurance premiums. If
the amounts paid to Lessor by Lessee under the provisions of this paragraph are
insufficient to discharge the obligations of Lessee to pay such real property
taxes and insurance premiums as the same become due, Lessee shall pay to Lessor,
upon Lessor's demand, such additional sums necessary to pay such obligations.
All moneys paid to Lessor under this paragraph may be intermingled with other
moneys of Lessor and shall not bear interest. In the event of a default in the
obligations of Lessee to perform under this Lease, then any balance remaining
from funds paid to Lessor under the provisions of this paragraph may, at the
option of Lessor, be applied to the payment of any monetary default of Lessee in
lieu of being applied to the payment of real property tax and insurance
premiums.


                                      -9-
<PAGE>

14. CONDEMNATION. If the Premises or any portion thereof are taken under the
power of eminent domain, or sold under the threat of the exercise of said power
(all of which are herein called "condemnation"), this Lease shall terminate as
to the part so taken as of the date the condemning authority takes title or
possession, whichever first occurs. If more than 10% of the floor area of the
building on the Premises, or more than 25% of the land area of the Premises
which is not occupied by any building, is taken by condemnation, Lessee may, at
Lessee's option, to be exercised in writing only within ten (10) days after
Lessor shall have given Lessee written notice of such taking (or in the absence
of such notice, within ten (10) days after the condemning authority shall have
taken possession) terminate this Lease as of the date the condemning authority
takes such possession. If Lessee does not terminate this Lease in accordance
with the foregoing, this Lease shall remain in full force and effect as the
portion of the Premises remaining, except that the rent shall be reduced in the
proportion that the floor area of the building taken bears to the total floor
area of the building situated on the Premises. No reduction of rent shall occur
if the only area taken is that which does not have a building located thereon.
Any award for the taking of all or any part of the Premises under the power of
eminent domain or any payment made under the threat of the exercise of such
power shall be the property of Lessor, whether such award shall be made as
compensation for diminution in value of the leasehold or for the taking of the
fee, or as severance damages; provided, however, that Lessee shall be entitled
to any award for loss of or damage to Lessee's trade fixtures and removable
personal property. In the event that this Lease is not terminated by reason of
such condemnation, Lessor shall to the extent of severance damages received by
Lessor in connection with such condemnation, repair any damage to the Premises
caused by such condemnation except to the extent that Lessee has been reimbursed
therefor by the condemning authority. Lessee shall pay any amount in excess of
such severance damages required to complete such repair.

15. BROKER'S FEE.

         (a) Upon execution of this Lease by both parties, Lessor shall pay to
Cornish & Carey Commercial per Cornish and Carey's gross lease schedule as
historically used with Westlake Development Company.

         (b) Lessor further agrees that if Lessee exercises any Option as
defined in paragraph 39 of this Lease which is granted to Lessee under this
Lease, or any subsequently granted option which is substantially similar to the
Option granted to Lessee with this Lease, or if Lessee acquires any rights to
the Premises or other premises described in this Lease which are substantially
similar to ____________________ an Option herein granted to Lessee been
exercised, or if Lessee remains in possession of the Premises after the
expiration of the term of this Lease after having failed to exercise an Option,
or if said broker(s) are the procuring cause of any other lease or sale entered
into between the parties pertaining to the Premises and/or any adjacent property
in which Lessor has an interest, then as to any of said transactions, Lessor
shall pay said broker(s) a fee in accordance with the schedule of said broker(s)
in effect at the time of execution of this Lease.

         (c) Lessor agrees to pay said fee not only on behalf of Lessor but also
on behalf of any person, corporation, association, or other entity having an
ownership interest in said real property or any part thereof, when such fee is
due hereunder. Any transferee of Lessor's interest in this Lease, whether such
transfer is by agreement or by operation of law, shall be deemed to have assumed
Lessor's obligation under this Paragraph 15. Said broker shall be a third party
beneficiary of the provisions of this Paragraph 15.

16. ESTOPPEL CERTIFICATE

         (a) Lessee shall at any time upon not less than ten (10) days' prior
written notice from Lessor execute, acknowledge and deliver to Lessor a
statement in writing (i) certifying that this Lease is unmodified and in full
force and effect (or, if modified, stating the nature of such modification and
certifying that this Lease, as so modified, is in full force and effect) and the
date to which the rent and other charges are paid in advance, if any, and (ii)
acknowledging that there are not, to Lessee's knowledge, any uncured defaults on
the part of Lessor hereunder, or specifying such defaults if any are claimed.
Any such statement may be conclusively relied upon by any prospective purchaser
or encumbrancer of the Premises.

         (b) At Lessor's option, Lessee's failure to deliver such statement
within such time shall be a material breach of this Lease or shall be conclusive
upon Lessee (i) that this Lease is in full force and effect, without
modification except as may be represented by Lessor, (ii) that there are no
uncured defaults in Lessor's performance and (iii) that not more than one
month's rent has been paid in advance or such failure may be considered by
Lessor as a default by Lessee under this Lease.


                                      -10-
<PAGE>

         (c) If Lessor desires to finance, refinance, or sell the Premises, or
any part thereof, Lessee hereby agrees to deliver to any lender or purchaser
designated by Lessor such financial statements of Lessee as may be reasonably
required by such lender or purchaser. Such statements ____________ include the
past three years financial statements of Lessee. All such financial statements
shall be received by Lessor and such lender or purchaser in confidence and shall
be used only for the purposes herein set forth.

17. LESSOR'S LIABILITY. The term "Lessor" as used herein shall mean only the
owner or owners at the time in question of the fee, title or a Lessee's interest
in a ground lease of the Premises, and except as expressly provided in Paragraph
15, in the event of any transfer of such title or interest. Lessor herein named
(and in case of any subsequent transfers then the grantor) shall be relieved
from and after the date of such transfer of all liability as respects Lessor's
obligations thereafter to be performed, provided that any funds in the hands of
Lessor or the then grantor at the time of such transfer, in which Lessee has an
interest, shall be delivered to the grantee. The obligations contained in this
Lease to be performed by Lessor shall, subject as aforesaid, be binding on
Lessor's successors and assigns, only during their respective periods of
ownership.

18. SEVERABILITY. The invalidity of any provision of this Lease as determined by
a court of competent jurisdiction, shall in no way affect the validity of any
other provision hereof.

19. INTEREST ON PAST-DUE OBLIGATIONS. Except as expressly herein provided, any
amount due to Lessor not paid when due shall bear interest at the maximum rate
then allowable by law from the date due. Payment of such interest shall not
excuse or cure any default by Lessee under this Lease, provided, however, that
interest shall not be payable on late charges incurred by Lessee nor on any
amounts upon which late charges are paid by Lessee.

20. TIME OF ESSENCE. Time is of the essence.

21. ADDITIONAL RENT. Any monetary obligations of Lessee to Lessor under the
terms of this Lease shall be deemed to be rent.

22. INCORPORATION OF PRIOR AGREEMENTS; AMENDMENTS. This Lease contains all
agreements of the parties with respect to any matter mentioned herein. No prior
agreement or understanding pertaining to any such matter shall be effective.
This Lease may be modified in writing only, signed by the parties in interest at
the time of the modification. Except as otherwise stated in this Lease, Lessee
hereby acknowledges that neither the real estate broker listed in Paragraph 15
hereof nor any cooperating broker on this transaction nor the Lessor or any
employees or agents of any of said persons has made any oral or written
warranties or representations to Lessee relative to the condition or use by
Lessee of said Premises and Lessee acknowledges that Lessee assumes all
responsibility regarding the Occupations Safety Health Act, the legal use and
adaptability of the Premises and the compliance thereof with all applicable laws
and regulations in effect during the term of this Lease except as otherwise
specifically stated in this Lease.

23. NOTICES. Any notice required or permitted to be given hereunder shall be in
writing and may be given by personal delivery or by certified mail, and if given
personally or by mail, shall be deemed sufficiently given if addressed to Lessee
or to Lessor at the address noted below the signature of the respective parties,
as the case may be. Either party may by notice to the other specify a different
address for notice purposes except that upon Lessee's taking possession of the
Premises, the Premises shall constitute Lessee's address for notice purposes. A
copy of all notices required or permitted to be given to Lessor hereunder shall
be concurrently transmitted to such party or parties at such addresses as Lessor
may from time to time hereafter designate by notice to Lessee.

24. WAIVERS. No waiver by Lessor or any provision hereof shall be deemed a
waiver of any other provision hereof or of any subsequent breach by Lessee of
the same or any other provision. Lessor's consent to, or approval of any act,
shall not be deemed to render unnecessary the obtaining of Lessor's consent to
or approval of any subsequent act by Lessee. The acceptance of rent hereunder by
Lessor shall not be a waiver of any preceding breach by Lessee of any provision
hereof, other than the failure of Lessee to pay the particular rent so accepted,
regardless of Lessor's knowledge of such preceding breach at the time of
acceptance of such rent.

25. RECORDING. Either Lessor or Lessee shall, upon request of the other,
execute, acknowledge and deliver to the other a "short form" memorandum of this
Lease for recording purposes.

26. HOLDING OVER. If Lessee, with Lessor's consent, remains in possession of the
Premises or any part thereof after the expiration of the term hereof, such
occupancy shall be a tenancy from month to month upon all the provisions of this
Lease pertaining to the obligations of Lessee, but all options and rights of
first refusal, if any, granted under the terms of this Lease shall be deemed
terminated and be of no further effect during said month to month tenancy.


                                      -11-
<PAGE>

27. CUMULATIVE REMEDIES. No remedy or election hereunder shall be deemed
exclusive but shall, wherever possible, be cumulative with all other remedies at
law or in equity.

28. COVENANTS AND CONDITIONS. Each provision of this Lease performable by Lessee
shall be deemed both a covenant and a condition.

29. BINDING EFFECT; CHOICE OF LAW. Subject to any provisions hereof restricting
assignment or subletting by Lessee and subject to the provisions of Paragraph
17, this Lease shall bind the parties, their personal representatives,
successors and assigns. This Lease shall be governed by the laws of the State
wherein the Premises are located.

30. SUBORDINATION.

         (a) This Lease, at Lessor's option, shall be subordinate to any ground
lease, mortgage, deed of trust, or any other hypothecation or security now or
hereafter placed upon the real property of which the Premises are a part and to
any and all advances made on the security thereof and to all renewals,
modifications, consolidations, replacements and extensions thereof.
Notwithstanding such subordination, Lessee's right to quiet possession of the
Premises shall not be disturbed if Lessee is not in default and so long as
Lessee shall pay the rent and observe and perform all of the provisions of this
Lease, unless this Lease is otherwise terminated pursuant to its terms. If any
mortgagee, trustee or ground lessor shall elect to have this Lease prior to the
lien of its mortgage, deed of trust or ground lease, and shall give written
notice thereof to Lessee, this Lease shall be deemed prior to such mortgage,
deed of trust, or ground lease, whether this Lease is dated prior or subsequent
to the date of said mortgage, deed of trust or ground lease or the date of
recording thereof.

         (b) Lessee agrees to execute any documents required to effectuate an
attornment, a subordination or to make this Lease prior to the lien of any
mortgage, deed of trust or ground lease, as the case may be. Lessee's failure to
execute such documents within 10 days after written demand shall constitute a
material default by Lessee hereunder, or, at Lessor's option, Lessor shall
execute such documents on behalf of Lessee as Lessee's attorney-in-fact. Lessee
does hereby make, constitute and irrevocably appoint Lessor as Lessee's
attorney-in-fact and in Lessee's name, place and stead, to execute such
documents in accordance with this paragraph 30(b).

31. ATTORNEY'S FEES. If either party or the broker named herein brings an action
to enforce the terms hereof or declare rights hereunder, the prevailing party in
any such action, on trial or appeal, shall be entitled to his reasonable
attorney's fees to be paid by the losing party as fixed by the court. The
provisions of this paragraph shall inure to the benefit of the broker named
herein who seeks to enforce a right hereunder.

32. LESSOR'S ACCESS. Lessor and Lessor's agents shall have the right to enter
the Premises at reasonable times for the purpose of inspecting the same, showing
the same to prospective purchasers, lenders, or lessees, and making such
alterations, repairs, improvements or additions to the Premises or to the
building of which they are a part as Lessor may deem necessary or desirable.
Lessor may at any time place on or about the Premises any ordinary "For Sale"
signs and Lessor may at any time during the last 120 days of the term hereof
place on or about the Premises any ordinary "For Lease" signs, all without
rebate of rent or liability to Lessee.

33. AUCTIONS. Lessee shall not conduct, nor permit to be conducted, either
voluntarily or involuntarily, any auction upon the Premises without first having
obtained Lessor's prior written consent. Notwithstanding anything to the
contrary in this Lease, Lessor shall not be obligated to exercise any standard
of reasonableness in determining whether to grant such consent.

34. SIGNS. Lessee shall not place any sign upon the Premises without Lessor's
prior written consent except that Lessee shall have the right, without the prior
permission of Lessor to place ordinary and usual for rent or sublet signs
thereon.

35. MERGER. The voluntary or other surrender of this Lease by Lessee, or a
mutual cancellation thereof, or a termination by Lessor, shall not work a
merger, and shall, at the option of Lessor, terminate all or any existing
subtenancies or may, at the option of Lessor, operate as an assignment to Lessor
of any or all of such subtenancies.

36. CONSENTS. Except for paragraph 33 hereof, wherever in this Lease the consent
of one party is required to an act of the other party, such consent shall not be
unreasonably withheld.

37. GUARANTOR. In the event that there is a guarantor of this Lease, said
guarantor shall have the same obligations as Lessee under this Lease.


                                      -12-
<PAGE>

38. QUIET POSSESSION. Upon Lessee paying the rent for the Premises and observing
and performing all of the covenants, conditions and provisions on Lessee's part
to be observed and performed hereunder., Lessee shall have quiet possession of
the Premises for the entire term hereof subject to all of the provisions of this
Lease. The individuals executing this Lease on behalf of Lessor represent and
warrant to Lessee that they are fully authorized and legally capable of
executing this Lease on behalf of Lessor and that such execution is binding upon
all parties holding an ownership interest in the Premises.

39. OPTIONS.

         39.1 DEFINITION. As used in this paragraph the word "Options" has the
following meaning: (1) the right or option to extend the term of this Lease or
to renew this Lease or to extend or renew any lease that Lessee has on other
property of Lessor; (2) the option or right of first refusal to lease the
Premises or the right of first offer to lease the Premises or the right of first
refusal to lease other property of Lessor or the right to first offer to lease
other property of Lessor; (3) the right or option to purchase the Premises, or
the right of first refusal to purchase the Premises, or the right of first offer
to purchase the Premises or the right or option to purchase other property of
Lessor, or the right of first refusal to purchase other property of Lessor or
the right of first offer to purchase other property of Lessor.

         39.2 OPTIONS PERSONAL. Each Option granted to Lessee in this Lease are
personal to Lessee and may not be exercised or be assigned voluntarily or
involuntarily, by or to any person or entity other than Lessee, provided,
however, the Option may be exercised by or assigned to any Lessee Affiliate as
defined in paragraph 12.2 of this Lease. The Options herein granted to Lessee
are not assignable separate and apart from this Lease.

         39.3 MULTIPLE OPTIONS. In the event that Lessee has any multiple
options to extend or renew this Lease a later option cannot be exercised unless
the prior option to extend or renew this Lease has been so exercised.

         39.4  EFFECT OF DEFAULT ON OPTIONS.

         (a) Lessee shall have not right to exercise an Option, notwithstanding
any provision in the grant of Option to the contrary, (i) during the time
commencing from the date Lessor gives to Lessee a notice of default pursuant to
paragraph 13.1(b) or 13.1(c) and continuing until the default alleged in said
notice of default is cured, or (ii) during the period of time commencing on the
day after a monetary obligation to Lessor is due from Lessee and unpaid (without
any necessity for notice thereof to Lessee) continuing until the obligation is
paid, or (iii) at any time after an event of default described in paragraphs
13.1(a), 13.1(d), or 13.1(e) (without any necessity of Lessor to give notice of
such default to Lessee), or (iv) in the event that Lessor has given to Lessee
three or more notices of default under paragraph 13.1(b), where a late charge
becomes payable under paragraph 13.4 for each of such defaults, or paragraph
13.1(c), whether or not the defaults are cured, during the 12 month period prior
to the time that Lessee intends to exercise the subject Option.

         (b) The period of time within which an Option may be exercised shall
not be extended or enlarged by reason of Lessee's inability to exercise an
Option because of the provisions of paragraph 39.4(a).

         (c) All rights of Lessee under the provisions of an Option shall
terminate and be of no further force or effect, notwithstanding Lessee's due and
timely exercise of the Option, if, after such exercise and during the term of
this Lease, (i) Lessee fails to pay to Lessor a monetary obligation of Lessee
for a period of 30 days after such obligation becomes due (without any necessity
of Lessor to give notice thereof to Lessee) or (ii) Lessee fails to commence to
cure a default specified in paragraph 13.1(c) within 30 days after the date that
Lessor gives notice to Lessee of such default and/or Lessee fails thereafter to
diligently prosecute said cure to completion, or (iii) Lessee commits a default
described in paragraph 13.1(a), 13.1(d) or 13.1(e) (without any necessity of
Lessor to give notice of such default to Lessee), or (iv) Lessor gives to Lessee
three or more notices of default under paragraph 13.1(b), where a late charge
becomes payable under paragraph 13.4 for each such default, or paragraph
13.1(c), whether or not the defaults are cured.

40. MULTIPLE TENANT BUILDING. In the event that the Premises are part of a
larger building or group of buildings then Lessee agrees that it will abide by,
keep and observe all reasonable rules and regulations which Lessor may make from
time to time for the management, safety, care, and cleanliness of the building
and grounds, the parking of vehicles and the preservation of good order therein
as well as for the convenience of other occupants and tenants of the building.
The violations of any such rules and regulations shall be deemed a material
breach of this Lease by Lessee.


                                      -13-
<PAGE>

41. SECURITY MEASURES. Lessee hereby acknowledges that the rental payable to
Lessor hereunder does not include the cost of guard service or other security
measures, and that Lessor shall have no obligation whatsoever to provide same.
Lessee assumes all responsibility for the protection of Lessee, its agents and
invitees from acts of third parties.

42. EASEMENTS. Lessor reserves to itself the right, from time to time, to grant
such easements, rights and dedications that Lessor deems necessary or desirable,
and to cause the recordation of Parcel Maps and restrictions, so long as such
easements, rights, dedications, Maps and restrictions do not unreasonably
interfere with the use of the Premises by Lessee. Lessee shall sign any of the
aforementioned documents upon request of Lessor and failure to do so shall
constitute a material breach of this Lease.

43. PERFORMANCE UNDER PROTEST. If at any time a dispute shall arise as to any
amount or sum of money to be paid by one party to the other under the provisions
hereof, the party against whom the obligation to pay the money is asserted shall
have the right to make payment "under protest" and such payment shall not be
regarded as a voluntary payment, and there shall survive the right on the part
of said party to institute suit for recovery of such sum. If it shall be
adjudged that there was no legal obligation on the part of said party to pay
such sum or any part thereof, said party shall be entitled to recover such sum
or so much thereof as it was not legally required to pay under the provisions of
this Lease.

44. AUTHORITY. If Lessee is a corporation, trust, or general or limited
partnership, each individual executing this Lease on behalf of such entity
represents and warrants that he or she is duly authorized to execute and deliver
this Lease on behalf of said entity. If Lessee is a corporation, trust or
partnership, Lessee shall, within thirty (30) days after execution of this
Lease, deliver to Lessor evidence of such authority satisfactory to Lessor.

45. CONFLICT. Any conflict between the printed provisions of this Lease and the
typewritten or handwritten provisions shall be controlled by the typewritten or
handwritten provisions.

46. ADDENDUM. Attached hereto is an addendum or addenda containing paragraphs 47
through 48 which constitutes a part of this Lease.




LESSOR AND LESSEE HAVE CAREFULLY READ AND REVIEWED THIS LEASE AND EACH TERM AND
PROVISION CONTAINED HEREIN AND, BY EXECUTION OF THIS LEASE, SHOW THEIR INFORMED
AND VOLUNTARY CONSENT THERETO. THE PARTIES HEREBY AGREE THAT, AT THE TIME THIS
LEASE IS EXECUTED, THE TERMS OF THIS LEASE ARE COMMERCIALLY REASONABLE AND
EFFECTUATE THE INTENT AND PURPOSE OF LESSOR AND LESSEE WITH RESPECT TO THE
PREMISES.

         IF THIS LEASE HAS BEEN FILLED IN IT HAS BEEN PREPARED FOR SUBMISSION TO
         YOUR ATTORNEY FOR HIS APPROVAL. NO REPRESENTATION OR RECOMMENDATION IS
         MADE BY THE AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATION OR BY THE REAL
         ESTATE BROKER OR ITS AGENTS OR EMPLOYEES AS TO THE LEGAL SUFFICIENCY,
         LEGAL EFFECT, OR TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THIS LEASE OR THE TRANSACTION
         RELATING THERETO; THE PARTIES SHALL RELY



                                      -14-
<PAGE>

         SOLELY UPON THE ADVICE OF THEIR OWN LEGAL COUNSEL AS TO THE LEGAL AND
         TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THIS LEASE.

THE PARTIES HERETO HAVE EXECUTED THIS LEASE AT THE PLACE ON THE DATES SPECIFIED
IMMEDIATELY ADJACENT TO THEIR RESPECTIVE SIGNATURES.

Executed at                                   WESTLAKE DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, INC.
            ------------------------------    ----------------------------------
on                                            By  /s/ Walter H.Y. Chang
   ---------------------------------------        ------------------------------
Address   520 El Camino Real, 9th Floor       By
        ----------------------------------        ------------------------------
          San Mateo, CA  94402                         "LESSEE" (Corporate seal)
------------------------------------------
Executed at                                             TRANSGENOMIC, INC.
           -------------------------------      --------------------------------
on        2036 Concourse Drive                By  /s/ Collin D'Silva
   ---------------------------------------      --------------------------------
Address   San Jose, CA  95131                 By
        ----------------------------------      --------------------------------
                                                       "LESSEE" (Corporate seal)
------------------------------------------




                                      -15-
<PAGE>

                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.17


                  C O R N I S H  &  C A R E Y  C O M M E R C I A L

                                  =============
                                       C&C
                                  =============

                       O N C O R I N T E R N A T I O N A L

================================================================================
                            L E A S E  A D D E N D U M
================================================================================


ADDENDUM TO THE LEASE DATED NOVEMBER 1, 1998, BY AND BETWEEN WESTLAKE
DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, INC., LANDLORD, AND TRANSGENOMIC, INC., TENANT, FOR THOSE
PREMISES LOCATED AT 2030 CONCOURSE DRIVE, SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA.

47.      Base Rent Schedule:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

         Dates                                         Rent per Month

<S>      <C>                                           <C>
         11/1/1998 through 10/31/1999                  $7,297.50 per month
         11/1/1999 through 10/31/2000                  $7,560.00 per month
         11/1/2000 through 10/31/2001                  $7,822.50 per month
         11/1/2001 through 05/31/2002                  $8,085.00 per month

</TABLE>

48.      A.   Lessee, at Lessee's sole cost and expense, shall have Lessor's
              permission to install one (1) man door and a double door and
              remove a wall as shown on Exhibit A attached.

         B.   Lessor, at Lessor's sole cost and expense, shall install the
              following items after Lessee completes the work in Item A above:

              1.  Paint the entire inside walls of the premises.

              2.  Install new industrial grade carpet in the rooms that are
                  currently carpeted. Color of carpet to be mutually acceptable
                  to Lessee and Lessor.



LANDLORD:         WESTLAKE DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, INC.

By:      /s/ Walter H. Y. Change               Date:             11/11/98
    -------------------------------------            ---------------------------


TENANT:  TRANSGENOMIC, INC.

By:      /s/ Collin D'Silva                    Date:             11/1/98
    -------------------------------------            ---------------------------

<PAGE>

                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.17


                                    EXHIBIT A

                               [Property Diagram]