Aptamer Group plc (AIM: APTA), a pioneer in developing novel Optimer binders for life sciences innovation, has announced a significant partnership with Microsaic Systems plc (Microsaic) to expand the capabilities of the Microtox water testing system. This collaboration focuses on integrating a new panel of Optimer binders designed specifically to detect several key waterborne pathogens.

Optimer Binders: Enhancing Detection and Public Health Safety

The Optimer technology, previously successful in trials for COVID-19 detection within the UK’s wastewater system, is set to be further developed to target pathogens like E.coli, Cholera, Cryptosporidium, Legionella, and Norovirus. The integration of these binders into the Microtox system, recently acquired by Microsaic, aims to bring superior detection performance, outperforming other affinity ligands like Affimers.

Advancing to Commercial Viability

Following the acquisition of Microtox, Microsaic plans to advance the water testing device to commercial stages using the Optimer binders. This system promises real-time, continuous monitoring of water quality without the delays typically associated with laboratory testing, thus enabling quicker responses to public health threats.

Expert Insights: Aptamer’s Commitment to Public Health

Dr. Arron Tolley, Chief Technical Officer of Aptamer Group, emphasized the potential impact of this technology on public health. “Applying the pathogen detector within national water systems could help prevent disease outbreaks by rapidly identifying specific hotspots. The robust nature of Optimer binders means that they can work within tests as diverse as lab-based diagnostics and environmental water monitoring. Previous work has demonstrated that Optimer binders allow highly sensitive pathogen detection in the wastewater testing system, and we are pleased to build on this with the new team at Microsaic as they advance the platform to commerciality.”

This partnership is set to transform the landscape of water quality testing, highlighting the importance of innovative solutions in maintaining public health and safety. Aptamer Group’s and Microsaic’s joint efforts demonstrate a proactive approach to tackling the challenges of waterborne diseases, potentially setting new standards in environmental monitoring.

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