REG - Aptamer Group PLC - Unilever second Optimer development programme

AptamerAnnouncement

30/05/2025 07:00

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RNS Number : 6900K  Aptamer Group PLC  30 May 2025

 

 

30 May 2025

 

Aptamer Group plc

 

("Aptamer", the "Company" or the "Group")

 

Unilever initiates second Optimer development programme

Aptamer to receive undisclosed six-figure sum for second development in
personal care

Second programme expands Optimer applications following the success of the
initial programme to date

 

Aptamer Group plc (AIM: APTA), the leading developer of next-generation
synthetic binders delivering innovation to the life science industry, today
announces the signing of a second Optimer discovery and development programme
with global consumer goods leader, Unilever.

 

Under the new agreement, Aptamer will develop a novel panel of Optimer binders
targeting an additional biological pathway associated with body odour
formation, potentially providing Unilever with a second strategy to prevent
the formation of body malodour. The agreement is structured on a
fee-for-service basis, with Aptamer receiving an undisclosed six-figure sum
for the development work.

 

This new programme builds on the success of the initial programme, which
focused on inhibiting a key bacterial enzyme involved in body odour
production. Optimers from the initial programme have passed internal
validation and lab-based testing, both at Aptamer and Unilever, with on-person
performance trials anticipated in 2025.

 

Unilever commands over 30 per cent of the global deodorant market, compared to
10 per cent for its nearest competitor. With the sector expected to grow at a
CAGR of 4.5 per cent over the next five years, the commercial opportunity for
Aptamer in personal care is significant. This collaboration highlights the
scalability and cross-sector potential of the Optimer platform, traditionally
applied in therapeutic and diagnostic markets, and now entering the
high-volume consumer health space.

 

Dr Arron Tolley, Chief Executive Officer, Aptamer Group, said: "I am excited
by the additional project we are undertaking with Unilever. This project
expands our partnership with Unilever in the odour control space. The
excellent results produced by our team in the first project have resulted in a
deepening partnership with Unilever, expanding on the applicability of our
Optimer binders.

 

"The first project is now moving toward on-person trials, and this deal
positions us well to create multiple, licensable assets with a global
powerhouse in the consumer health market. This second programme reflects the
confidence Unilever has in the Optimer platform and the significant value we
can unlock by expanding our offering into novel, large-scale applications like
personal care."

 

Dr Sam Samaras, Senior Vice President R&D, Unilever, said: "This new
project with Aptamer Group reflects the positive nature of the collaboration
thus far. This was the first time that Unilever has examined Optimer binders
in cosmetic applications and the data so far have shown encouraging results.
We have agreed on a follow up project targeting novel approaches for odour
control using Optimer technology. We will continue to engage with the world
class team at Aptamer Group to explore this and additional opportunities."

 

- Ends -

For further information, please contact:

 

 Aptamer Group plc                                               +44 (0) 1904 217 404 

 Dr Arron Tolley, Chief Executive Officer
 SPARK Advisory Partners Limited - Nominated Adviser             +44 (0) 20 3368 3550 

 Andrew Emmott / Jade Bayat 
 Turner Pope Investments (TPI) Limited - Broker                  +44 (0) 20 3657 0050 

 James Pope / Andrew Thacker 
 Northstar Communications Limited - Investor Relations           +44 (0) 113 730 3896

 Sarah Hollins

 

About Aptamer Group

Aptamer Group is a leading developer of next-generation synthetic binders
delivering innovation to the life sciences industry. The Group
develops Optimer® binders, advanced molecules that work like antibodies by
attaching to specific targets in the body. These binders are used
in medicine, diagnostic tests, and research tools, offering benefits
like high stability, reliable performance, and lower costs compared to
traditional antibodies.

Aptamer operates a fee-for-service business in the $210 billion market for
antibody alternatives, working with all top 10 global pharmaceutical
companies. It is also building valuable Optimer® assets with partners,
aiming for future licensing revenue.

Founded in 2008, the Group listed on the London Stock Exchange AIM market in
December 2021 and is headquartered in York, UK.

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