(Alliance News) - Aptamer Group PLC on Tuesday celebrated a "solid start" to the second half, after signing two new contracts with the potential for downstream milestone and licencing payments.

Aptamer is a York, England-based company which develops custom affinity binders through its proprietary Optimer platform to enable new approaches in therapeutics, diagnostics and research applications.

Optimer binders can function as an antibody alternative.

The two new fee-for-service contracts are initially worth over GBP500,000, subject to the successful progression of Optimer development.

The first is with BaseCure Therapeutics, a pre-clinical stage biotech company dedicated to the discovery and development of innovative siRNA-based medicines.

Aptamer is working with BaseCure Therapeutics to identify cell targeting Optimer binders that might be developed as potential delivery vehicles for siRNA uptake into target cells and tissues.

The second contract is with a developer of custom enzymes based in Asia.

Aptamer will develop Optimer binders for incorporation into a biosensor to allow convenient monitoring of the ingredients in the company's manufacturing processes.

"Signing these two substantial deals is a solid start to the second half for Aptamer Group. The diverse nature of these partnerships demonstrates the broad applicability of the Optimer platform across the life science industry, from supporting improved manufacturing methods to developing new drugs and the increased need for novel antibody alternatives within the life science market. I look forward to updating the market regarding progress for these deals and new partnerships in due course," said Chief Executive Officer Arron Tolley.

Aptamer shares were trading 3.4% higher at 39.80 pence each in London on Tuesday morning.

By Holly Beveridge; Alliance News reporter

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