Aptamer Group, a developer of innovative Optimer binders, acknowledges DeepVerge’s announcement today that Optimer-enabled Microtox PD systems for pathogen detection in wastewater were installed at 6 sites across the UK as part of the Environmental Monitoring for Health Protection (EMHP) programme, with more installations expected in the UK over the next few months.
Aptamer Group uses its unique Optimer platform to create custom affinity binders that enable new medicinal, diagnostic, and research options.
Using its patented Optimer platform, the company aims to create disruptive products that satisfy the needs of biomedical researchers and developers.
MicrotoxPD, a DeepVerge product, detects and monitors pathogens in wastewater and drinking water in real-time.
The information gathered by the MircotoxPD units as part of the programme will allow public health officials to provide targeted containment in the event of a disease outbreak, as well as identification of the SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, which Aptamer’s SARS-CoV-2 binder can detect.
Following a performance test of the SARS-CoV-2 Optimers in comparison to ligands from several suppliers, Aptamer Group was chosen as the recommended ‘ligand provider’ for MicrotoxPD.
Optimer binders are oligonucleotide affinity ligands that can be used instead of antibodies. The global antibody market is presently valued at over $145b.
The Joint Biosecurity Centre (part of NHS Test & Trace), DEFRA, researchers, and water companies are leading the EMHP wastewater monitoring programme.
DeepVerge shares soared 12.5% to 13.5p as the company announced launching wastewater monitoring initiatives across the UK, and will launch more later this year.
Arron Tolley, Chief Executive Officer, Aptamer Group, commented, “We are really pleased to see the deployment of multiple Optimer-enabled MicrotoxPD units under the Environmental Monitoring for Health Protection programme.”
“This will allow remote, real-time monitoring of water pathogens, particularly SARS-CoV-2, for the country to prepare for the next winter period.”
“This Optimer-based detection offers increased national and international water safety through routine installations and monitoring, and we look forward to supporting our partners at DeepVerge through the supply of highly specific Optimer binders that enable specific and sensitive pathogen detection on their platform.”
Aptamer Group has successfully completed projects for large pharma firms, diagnostic development agencies, and research institutes with the goal of acquiring royalty-bearing licences across a wide range of targets and functions.
Scientists and collaborators can make faster, more informed decisions that assist discovery and development in biomedicine thanks to the unique Optimer technology and processes.
Aptamer’s shares have gained 2% to 123p with the news of DeepVerge launching wastewater monitoring systems using Aptamer’s Optimer binders.