Aptamer initiates rapid testing programme for fortified foods using Optimer technology
Collaboration with Imperial College and support from the Gates Foundation aims to develop field‑deployable folic acid testing solutions
12 Jun 2026Industry news
Aptamer Group plc has initiated a funded research program with Imperial College London, supported by the Gates Foundation, to translate Aptamer’s folic acid Optimer® binders into a rapid lateral flow testing kit.
The collaboration will focus on developing an affordable, field-deployable solution to monitor folate levels in fortified foods at production sites, particularly in lower-income countries where food fortification is a key public health intervention to prevent serious birth defects.
Scope of the collaboration
Under the agreement, Aptamer Group has contracted an upfront fee to:
- Develop field-compatible sample preparation and extraction methods using its existing folic acid Optimer® binders
- Supply these Optimer® binders to the Güder Research Group in the Department of Bioengineering at Imperial College London
The collaboration is expected to:
- Demonstrate the suitability of Optimer® binders for use in rapid, field-deployable food testing
- Enable a potential commercial licence fee upon successful field validation
- Create opportunities for ongoing commercial supply of Optimer® materials for lateral flow device manufacture
The Güder Research Group will incorporate the supplied binders into lateral flow devices designed for on-site testing of folate levels in fortified foods. Aptamer has proposed a further commercial licence fee upon successful field validation of the assay, enabling the programme to provide these lateral flow devices globally.
Addressing folic acid deficiency in fortified foods
Folic acid deficiency is a leading preventable cause of serious birth defects, including spina bifida. Many lower-income countries rely on food fortification programmes as a primary public health strategy to improve maternal and child health. However, there are currently no rapid test kits available to measure folate levels in fortified foods directly at the point of production.
This programme aims to address that unmet need by developing an affordable, field-deployable lateral flow test that can:
- Monitor folate levels in fortified foods in developing countries
- Operate without cold chain infrastructure
- Function without specialist equipment in food processing facilities where fortification takes place
The programme will investigate the suitability of Aptamer’s existing proprietary Optimer® binders for folic acid to support this application, with potential for commercial use of Aptamer’s existing intellectual property.
Development timeline and responsibilities
Aptamer expects to complete its in-house validation work in July 2026. At that point, validated Optimer® binders will be transferred to Imperial College London. Imperial College London will then:
- Lead the incorporation of the validated Optimer® binders into lateral flow tests
- Conduct field-based validation of the devices, anticipated by the end of 2026
Throughout the development phase, Aptamer will supply Optimer® material and may provide ongoing supply to support device manufacture following successful field deployment.
Dr. Arron Tolley, Chief Executive Officer of Aptamer Group, said, “We look forward to collaborating with Imperial College London and Gates Foundation on this critical initiative. 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”.
Want the latest science news straight to your inbox? Become a SelectScience member for free today>>
Frequently asked questions
How are Aptamer Group and Imperial College London using Optimer binders to develop rapid folate testing for fortified foods?
Aptamer Group is supplying its proprietary folic acid Optimer® binders and developing field-compatible sample preparation methods. The Güder Research Group at Imperial College London will integrate these binders into lateral flow devices to rapidly measure folate levels in fortified foods at production sites, particularly in lower-income countries, with support from the Gates Foundation.
Why is monitoring folate levels in fortified foods important for public health in lower-income countries?
Folic acid deficiency is a leading preventable cause of serious birth defects, including Spina Bifida. Many lower-income countries rely on food fortification to improve maternal and child health, but lack rapid, on-site tests to verify folate levels. This programme aims to deliver an affordable, field-deployable lateral flow test to monitor folate in fortified foods without cold chain or specialist equipment.
What is the development timeline and commercial potential of Aptamer Group’s folic acid Optimer lateral flow test?
Aptamer Group plans to complete in-house validation of folic acid Optimer® binders by July 2026, then transfer them to Imperial College London for device integration and field validation by end of 2026. Aptamer retains full Optimer® IP, anticipates a commercial licence fee after successful validation, and expects ongoing revenue from global supply of Optimer® materials for lateral flow device manufacture.