Novel peptide synthesis technology will aid manufacture
Peptide and protein synthesis specialist Southampton Polypeptides, the latest company to be spun out of The University of Southampton in the UK, is developing novel technology, specifically solid phase-solid phase chemical ligation, to produce peptides and protein therapeutics that are difficult to manufacture, as well as identifying peptides as potential drug candidates.
Peptide and protein synthesis specialist Southampton Polypeptides, the latest company to be spun out of The University of Southampton in the UK, is developing novel technology, specifically solid phase-solid phase chemical ligation, to produce peptides and protein therapeutics that are difficult to manufacture, as well as identifying peptides as potential drug candidates.
The company uses its expertise in solid and solution phase peptide synthesis, to manufacture peptides and proteins for diagnostic and therapeutic use. Its technology has the potential to substantially modify peptides, thus increasing their chemical stability and hence bioavailability.
The company, which was formed with the support of the University of Southampton's Enterprise Office, the CEI, intends to forge partnerships with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to move the technology forward and also to collaborate with partners in developing protein/peptide drugs. Dr Mario Polywka, formerly head of Oxford Asymmetry International, one of Oxford University's most successful spin-outs, has been appointed ceo.
The company's scientific founder, Dr Ram Sharma, commented: 'The potential applications for peptide therapeutics are a cause for great excitement. If you can overcome the technical challenges in making them, peptides can be developed into excellent therapies for the future. Drug companies are already very interested in our work.'
Southampton Polypeptide raised £300,000 in a share placing with private and institutional investors.