NattoPharma acquires MGP Diagnostics and secures rights to important patent
NattoPharma ASA has acquired all shares of MGP diagnostics AS, securing ownership of a granted patent that is the key to the development of a new diagnostic test concept. This concept may determine the need for the natural vitamin K2 product Mena Q7(TM), to which NattoPharma has exclusive rights.
NattoPharma has taken over 100% of the shares of MGP Diagnostics at a price of NOK 131 per share, a total of NOK 131,000, from the previous owners Anacott Steel AS (22,5%), Stein Westbye (22,5%), Leon Schurgers (22,5%), Cees Vermeer (22,5%) and VitaK (10%).
A wholly-owned subsidiary of the University of Maastricht, VitaK conducts most of NattoPharma's research on vitamin K2. The agreement gives VitaK the right to 5% royalty of revenues generated by MGP Diagnostics, limited upwardly to NOK 5 million per year and a total NOK 40 million throughout the lifespan of the patent.
VitaK has filed and invested more than 2 million Euro in the patent, which covers the development and application of monoclonal anti bodies against matrix Gla protein (MGP). This is a vitamin K-dependent protein that is important in preventing calcification of the arteries.
According to the company, the patent makes it possible for NattoPharma to develop tests that can identify activated and non-activated MGP in blood samples. Non-active MGP correlates with calcified arteries, activated MGP with non-calcified arteries. Studies show that NattoPharma's MenaQ7 can reduce non-activated MGP. This might allow for early-stage identification of persons possibly needing supplements of NattoPharma's product MenaQ7(TM) to prevent hardening of the arteries. "If we succeed in developing such a diagnostic concept, it will have significant value for both MGP Diagnostics and NattoPharma," says Egil Greve, Chief Executive Officer of NattoPharma.
Other news from the department business & finance
Get the life science industry in your inbox
From now on, don't miss a thing: Our newsletter for biotechnology, pharma and life sciences brings you up to date every Tuesday and Thursday. The latest industry news, product highlights and innovations - compact and easy to understand in your inbox. Researched by us so you don't have to.
More news from our other portals
See the theme worlds for related content
Topic world Antibodies
Antibodies are specialized molecules of our immune system that can specifically recognize and neutralize pathogens or foreign substances. Antibody research in biotech and pharma has recognized this natural defense potential and is working intensively to make it therapeutically useful. From monoclonal antibodies used against cancer or autoimmune diseases to antibody-drug conjugates that specifically transport drugs to disease cells - the possibilities are enormous
Topic world Antibodies
Antibodies are specialized molecules of our immune system that can specifically recognize and neutralize pathogens or foreign substances. Antibody research in biotech and pharma has recognized this natural defense potential and is working intensively to make it therapeutically useful. From monoclonal antibodies used against cancer or autoimmune diseases to antibody-drug conjugates that specifically transport drugs to disease cells - the possibilities are enormous
Topic world Diagnostics
Diagnostics is at the heart of modern medicine and forms a crucial interface between research and patient care in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries. It not only enables early detection and monitoring of disease, but also plays a central role in individualized medicine by enabling targeted therapies based on an individual's genetic and molecular signature.
Topic world Diagnostics
Diagnostics is at the heart of modern medicine and forms a crucial interface between research and patient care in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries. It not only enables early detection and monitoring of disease, but also plays a central role in individualized medicine by enabling targeted therapies based on an individual's genetic and molecular signature.
