Native Antigen Company launched as innovator for in-vitro diagnostics

New venture receives investment from the Mercia Fund and business angels to optimise diagnostic monitoring of infectious disease

16-Feb-2011 - United Kingdom

The Native Antigen Company has been formed following a spin out from PsiOxus (formerly Hybrid BioSystems). NAC, headquartered in Birmingham with research offices in Oxford, has its expertise in the isolation and purification of both viral and bacterial native antigens. These antigens serve as key components of infectious disease testing kits (a growing market estimated to be worth up to £100m); their function being to accurately detect pathogenic infection by capturing antibodies in patient samples.

Andrew Maxwell CEO said “Most antigens used in current diagnostic kits are not native and can thus lack the specificity and sensitivity which we offer with our native antigens.  Accurate identification of an organism is vital to ensure an effective patient treatment regime. Industry has become reliant on recombinant antigens in part, due to perceived costs savings and ease of manufacture. There is a clear gap for an innovative company which can focus its expertise in the isolation and purification of native antigens and is prepared to work closely with the kit manufacturers to provide tailored, cost effective solutions. This is reflected in the strong market appetite to evaluate our approach.”

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Topic world Antibodies

Antibodies are specialized molecules of our immune system that can specifically recognize and neutralize pathogens or foreign substances. Antibody research in biotech and pharma has recognized this natural defense potential and is working intensively to make it therapeutically useful. From monoclonal antibodies used against cancer or autoimmune diseases to antibody-drug conjugates that specifically transport drugs to disease cells - the possibilities are enormous

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Topic world Antibodies

Antibodies are specialized molecules of our immune system that can specifically recognize and neutralize pathogens or foreign substances. Antibody research in biotech and pharma has recognized this natural defense potential and is working intensively to make it therapeutically useful. From monoclonal antibodies used against cancer or autoimmune diseases to antibody-drug conjugates that specifically transport drugs to disease cells - the possibilities are enormous