Market Trends of Global Aptamers Industry
Diagnostics Segment is Expected to Witness a Healthy Growth Rate Over the Forecast Period
Accurate diagnosis is critical in treating diseases, particularly viral ones. In recent years, the global demand and application of aptamer technology have surged. Aptamers are being explored for various diagnostic and therapeutic uses, especially in strategies targeting virus proteins.
Aptamers, recognized as versatile biological probes, show promise as sensitive and specific biosensors. Leveraging aptamers as diagnostic tools can lead to the development of rapid, sensitive, cost-effective, and user-friendly diagnostics for small clinical samples. A study published in the MDPI Journal in May 2022 highlighted the use of aptamers in detecting cancer cells. Beyond cancer cell detection, aptamers can identify various cancer metabolites, chemicals that differentiate cells, compounds affecting tumor activity, and key cancer biomarkers. One of the predominant techniques in cancer diagnosis is the use of aptamer-nanoparticle (Apt-NP) conjugates.
Furthermore, research published in Springer Nature Link in January 2023 noted the rising popularity of aptamer-based biosensors in point-of-care testing (POCT). These biosensors offer advantages like quicker results, cost savings, and user-friendliness over traditional methods. Their applications span cancer detection and diagnosing infectious diseases. The adaptability of aptamers allows their incorporation into sophisticated detection systems, including microfluidic devices and electrochemical sensors, amplifying their diagnostic potential. This ongoing research highlights the transformative role of aptamers in diagnostics across medical fields, suggesting a continued rise in their demand and segment growth.
Given these factors, the increasing adoption of aptamers in diagnostics of cancer and point-of-care diagnosis is poised to drive segment growth in the coming years.
North America Holds Significant Share in the Market and Expected to Grow in Forecast Period
North America's aptamer market benefits from rapid technological advancements, substantial investments, and a high concentration of pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. The United States, in particular, serves as the hub for significant R&D activities focused on aptamers.
In North America, R&D remains the primary application area for aptamers. Research applications not only drive demand but also play a pivotal role in generating market revenues. For example, in February 2024, Basking Biosciences secured USD 55 million in financing. This capital infusion is set to accelerate the clinical development of their innovative thrombolytic therapy for acute strokes. Specifically, Basking intends to prioritize the clinical advancement of BB-031, a trailblazing reversible RNA aptamer. Engineered for rapid action and a short effect duration, BB-031 targets the von Willebrand factor (vWF).
Market players are employing strategies like product launches, mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships, all of which are poised to propel market growth in the coming years. For instance, in July 2024, Aptamer Group partnered with AstraZeneca. Their collaboration aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Optimer's fibrotic liver delivery vehicles in administering small interfering RNA (siRNA). This alliance seeks to explore the potential of Aptamer's non-viral delivery systems, utilizing siRNA from AstraZeneca, especially given the positive results from Aptamer's past projects. Similarly in June 2023, Aptamer Group plc entered into partnership with BaseCure Therapeutics to develop Optimer-targeted gene therapies. Such partnerships focused on developing aptamer therapies and diagnostics are anticipated to drive market growth during the forecast period, as they aim to enhance competitiveness and capture a significant market share.
Given these developments, the North American aptamers market is poised for significant growth in the coming years. The region's robust R&D infrastructure, coupled with strategic collaborations and substantial funding, will likely drive innovation and expand the market's scope. As companies continue to invest in cutting-edge technologies and form strategic alliances, the North American aptamers market is expected to witness sustained growth and maintain its competitive edge globally.