A YORK-based biotech firm has announced further studies with Unilever concerning the use of its Optimer binder technology as active ingredients for deodrants.

The partnership began in 2022 and has been further extended following successful lab tests at both companies.

Dr Arron Tolley, Chief Executive Officer of Aptamer Group, said: “The continued advancement of our Optimer binders in collaboration with Unilever is a significant milestone for Aptamer Group.

"It showcases the versatility of our technology in providing unique solutions across new sectors, including cosmetics. We have collaborated closely with Unilever to develop these binders, and we are excited to see the strides being made towards their use in these novel deodorant applications.

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“With efficacy testing on the horizon, we are optimistic about bringing these binders to market in the coming years and look forward to discussing commercial opportunities with Unilever upon successful trial outcomes.”

Dr Sam Samaras, Senior Vice President R&D, Unilever: “This contract extension with Aptamer Group reflects the positive nature of the data generated thus far.

"This is the first time that Unilever has examined the impact of Optimer binders in cosmetic applications and the data so far have shown encouraging results.

"We will now progress to in-vivo testing of the developed materials to examine their impact, fully formulated, using our state-of-the-art in-house panel of experts.

"This utilisation of Optimers in the cosmetic space represents a novel application for this class of materials and we will continue to engage with the world class team at Aptamer Group to explore additional opportunities."