GCIAptamer shares jump on partnership with Timser to develop advanced cancer test
() , the developer of Optimer binders for use in research, diagnostics and therapeutics, announced an agreement with Timser Group, a pharma company focused on women's health. The deal, valued at up to £465k, is for the development of the world's first blood test for cervical cancer.
Under the terms, Aptamer will develop Optimer binders to Timser's patented cervical cancer biomarker panel - a 3-protein signature that can be used to detect cervical cancer and precancerous lesions. The Optimers will power the new blood test, eliminating the need for invasive smear tests and delivering earlier, more sensitive diagnostics.
Pairs of Optimer binders will be developed to each of the 3 biomarker proteins that form the unique cancer signature. Timser will receive a licence for the use of the Optimers in its specific test combination, which is patented in 21 countries, including the US.
Mercedes Gutierrez, CEO of Timser, commenting: "The potential of Optimer binders to enhance the accuracy and reliability of our cancer diagnostics tests is truly promising. By integrating this advanced technology, we are confident in our ability to overcome the limitations of traditional antibodies and improve the outcomes for patients undergoing cervical cancer screening. We look forward to a successful partnership and to witnessing the impact that this new technology will have for women across the globe."
View from Vox
A major announcement from Aptamer as it signs a £465k deal with Timser Group for the development of the world's first blood test for cervical cancer. Aptamer's Optimer technology will facilitate Timser's disruptive cancer diagnostic, resulting in a product that can deliver faster and better results, making traditional invasive methods obsolete. The announcement represents further validation of Aptamer's Optimer platform and recognition of its value. Markets welcomed the news, sending shares 16.5% higher on Wednesday.
's Optimer technology can play a key role in expanding cancer diagnostic tests into new markets, including in low-income countries. Among Optimer's advantages are superior shelf-life and enhanced temperature stability compared to antibodies, enabling easier global distribution. Timser chose Aptamer for its diagnostic as the former's attempts to develop antibodies failed due to issues with batch variability and supply chains. Unlike antibodies, Optimer binders are chemically manufactured, guaranteeing consistent quality.
Aptamer and Timser's new blood test for cervical cancer is likely to attract significant demand as current methods are lacking. The Optimer-enabled diagnostic will allow earlier detection, and in turn increased survival. The test also offers the potential for increased detection rates by improving uptake due to its less invasive nature.
's sales pipeline remains strong, with over £3m in advanced stage discussions, a portion of which is expected to progress through the lab before the end of the financial year. These anticipated sales add to £1.4m of existing signed deals, already at various stages of completion in the lab.
recently filed patents to protect Optimer binders developed in partnership with Unilever for use in cosmetics applications. A follow-on deal was also recently signed with Neuro-Bio to develop a second Optimer binder to enable a wholly Optimer-powered lateral flow test for the early detection of Alzheimer's disease.
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