Life sciences firm unveils Ebola virus test work

A life sciences firm has launched a development drive to tackle Ebola.

Aptamer Group is working on an antibody alternative to test for a highly infectious virus strain.

The move comes after the Bundibugyo variant swept across the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda earlier this year.

York-based Aptamer Group – known for Optimer-branded antibody alternative molecules – is working on apparatus to help deliver field-compatible diagnostic tests.

The project comes after the business developed SARS-CoV-2 binders during the COVID-19 pandemic that were translated into lateral flow tests.

Dr Arron Tolley, chief executive, said: “Those following the Ebola outbreak in Sub-Saharan Africa will note the growing severity of the situation on both a human and economic level. 

“A critical limiting factor in response is rapid, accurate diagnosis; existing tests lack the sensitivity needed for timely detection in field settings.

“During COVID-19, our platform demonstrated its ability to deliver diagnostic tools at pace to respond to infectious disease outbreaks. 

“We are now applying that capability to develop Optimers for specific proteins of the Bundibugyo strain.”

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