The Amorfix Aggregated Aβ Assay (A4 ) detects aggregations of Aβ, which is associated with Alzheimer’s disease, several months before conventional microscope procedures. Early detection of aggregates reduces the time and cost of preclinical trials and allows for faster screening.
US-based Amorfix offers A4 as a service and is now bringing the technique to more potential clients through a deal with reMYND. Belgium-based reMYND is offering the service as part of its preclinical contract research operations which support its in-house development efforts.
“This partnership is an important first step to accessing new clients as we build our Alzheimer’s disease services business”, said Vigen Nazarian, vice president of strategic alliances at Amorfix.
Furthermore, the work between reMYND and Amorfix will allow the companies to offer “a comprehensive solution to assess efficacy of drug candidates for treating AD using their proprietary models”, said Nazarian.
Alternative Aβ detection methods include immunohistochemistry (IHC). However, unlike A4, using IHC makes it difficult to detect aggregates in mice before the age of six months. Consequently Amorfix believes its technique can reduce animal trial time and cost compared to IHC.
Further advantages of A4 highlighted by Amorfix include the provision of quantitative and sensitive measurements of Aβ and compatibility with high throughput screening.
reMYND is primarily focused on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s research and offers a number of preclinical in-vivo efficacy, pharmacokinetic and safety testing services.