Life sciences group develops rapid test for Alzheimer’s disease

Aptamer Group, a developer of next-generation synthetic binders delivering innovation to the life science industry, says a test it has produced to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease has been converted for use in hospital laboratories. 

The Optimer-based test’s new format – which is non-invasive and uses samples of saliva – enhances its potential for commercialisation.

York-headquartered Aptamer has also finalised a royalty agreement for this test with its development partner, Neuro-Bio Ltd.

Under the agreed terms, Aptamer is eligible to receive royalty payments with a blended royalty rate of 11.1 per cent on the first £166m worth of sales, with five per cent afterwards for a 15-year term.

It estimates it will be developing and validating a prototype test over the next 12 to 18 months for transfer to a manufacturer or distributor.

Further development efforts are being made to clinically validate the new test format.

The Alzheimer’s disease diagnostic market is valued at $8.3bn/£6.2bn limited by the availability of any definitive diagnostic tests, and is expected to rise to $19.6bn/£14.7bn by 2029.

Dr. Arron Tolley, chief executive officer of Aptamer Group, said: “I am pleased that we have secured commercial terms with Neuro-Bio.

“This agreement underscores Apatmer’s model to establish ongoing revenue-generating opportunities in high-growth markets from the group’s developed Optimer binders across its asset portfolio.

“Adapting the Optimer-based Alzheimer’s diagnostic into a widely compatible test format is a significant step forward in the group’s mission to bring this test to market.

“The ability to integrate the test into existing hospital systems makes it easier for hospitals to adopt, providing a faster and easier route to market.

“The new strategic partnership with Neuro-Bio builds on the unique technical expertise of both companies to advance this innovative diagnostic solution toward commercialisation.”

Baroness Susan Greenfield, chief executive officer of Neuro-Bio, added: “We are very excited at the progress made by the collaboration between our two companies.

“The technical, innovative talent at Aptamer, when combined with our insights and unique approach to Alzheimer’s disease, holds the promise of a real breakthrough for a major, currently unmet, clinical need.

“Our team has greatly enjoyed working with the Aptamer researchers and looks forward to an ever-closer relationship going forward.”