UK-based Aptamer Group, the developer of diagnostic and therapeutic Optimer reagents, has signed an agreement with the multinational pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical company Takeda Pharmaceutical Company (Takeda).

The agreement will allow Aptamer Group to assess its Optimer technology with a new target class, with the potential for incorporation into Takeda’s drug development process. Following the development of specific Optimer reagents to the agreed range of targets, the Optimers will be available to Takeda to evaluate the feasibility of working with their drug compounds.

Optimers are optimised aptamer reagents. Based on oligonucleotide molecules, Optimers can bind specifically to a target molecule to act as an antibody alternative. Their ability to fold into distinct secondary or tertiary structures gives them high target affinity and specific binding toward the selected targets. They are emerging as promising alternatives in a range of applications.

Dr Arron Tolley, CEO, Aptamer Group, said, “I am delighted to have established this collaboration for critical assay reagents with Takeda, who are global pharma leaders. Co-development relationships such as this offer the opportunity to leverage each party’s expertise for the delivery of new and innovative tools for clinical and bio-therapeutic applications. This partnership is a great endorsement of the value of Aptamer Group’s technology in targeting novel biopharma and I look forward to working together with Takeda and reporting on progress.”