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(Sharecast News) - Aptamer Group said on Monday that it had launched a funded research programme with Imperial College London to develop a rapid testing kit for folic acid levels in fortified foods.
The AIM-traded synthetic binders specialist said the programme, supported by the Gates Foundation, would use its existing folic acid Optimer binders to develop field-compatible sample preparation and extraction methods.
Aptamer said it would receive an upfront fee for the work and would supply the binders to the Gder Research Group in Imperial's Department of Bioengineering for incorporation into lateral flow devices.
The company said it had also proposed a further commercial licence fee if the assay was successfully field validated, with potential additional value from the ongoing supply of Optimer materials for device manufacture.
It said the programme was aimed at addressing the lack of rapid test kits for measuring folate levels in fortified foods at the point of production, particularly in lower-income countries where food fortification is used as a public health intervention.
Aptamer said it expected to complete its in-house validation work in July 2026, after which validated binders would be transferred to Imperial.
Field-based validation of the lateral flow tests is expected by the end of 2026.
The company said it would retain full ownership of its Optimer intellectual property, with no rights ceded under the programme.
"We look forward to collaborating with Imperial College London and the Gates Foundation on this critical initiative," said chief executive officer Dr Arron Tolley.
"Our Optimer technology offers a powerful tool for improving food quality monitoring in resource-limited settings.
"Together, we aim to deliver a practical solution that can have a meaningful impact on maternal and child health worldwide."
At 1209 BST, shares in Aptamer Group were down 0.53% at 0.52p.
Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
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