Aptamer and Metir agree contract for detection of waterborne parasite

Thu, 11th Sep 2025 14:31

(Alliance News) - Aptamer Group PLC and Metir PLC on Thursday announced a new contract to develop Optimer binders for the rapid detection of Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts.

Cryptosporidium oocysts are infectious stages of the parasitic protozoan Cryptosporidium, which can be detected in water or faecal samples. Protozoans are a group of single-celled eukaryotes.

Cryptosporidium is a waterborne parasite that poses a significant risk to public health worldwide, the companies said.

Aptamer is a York, England-based synthetic binders provider, while Metir is a York-based company focused on water testing services.

Metir said: "Integration of Aptamer Group's Optimer technology is expected to deliver substantial benefits, including faster and more reliable results using synthetic, laboratory-made binders that ensure consistency of performance. Optimers provide highly specific detection of Cryptosporidium, reducing false positives and ensuring accurate identification of contamination."

Aptamer noted that the staged programme will deliver feasibility, isolation and optimisation work, with proof-of-concept data expected within three months.

Metir Chief Executive Officer Bob Moore added: "This agreement marks another step forward in Metir's strategy to deliver next-generation, real-time water monitoring solutions. The Group's close collaboration with Aptamer Group strengthens our position in protecting public health, especially in water purity, through innovative detection technology."

Separately, on Monday, Aptamer Chair Adam Hargreaves bought 5.0 million Aptamer shares at 1 penny each for a total of GBP50,000.

Aptamer shares were 1.8% higher at 1.12p each on Thursday afternoon in London, while Metir shares were down 2.6% at 1.22p.

By Tom Budszus, Alliance News slot editor

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