Corporate Vision Issue 4

28 CORPORATE VISION / Issue 4 2018 , MIPDiagnosticsLtd, aspin-out of theUniversityof Leicester, is commercialisingaunique technologyplatform–MolecularlyImprintedPolymers (nanoMIPs) - thatwill transformlife science research.Weprofile thecompanyandget aquote fromDrAdrianKinkaid, CEO, tofindoutmore. Innovation at the Heart of the Bio-Industry Founded in 2015, MIP Diagnostics is well on the way to achieving its mission of addressing the industry call for a viable antibody alternative by developing nanoMIPs, sometimes referred to as ‘plastic antibodies.’ NanoMIPs are indeed made of plastic and can perform many of the functions of antibodies, but with none of the disadvantages. NanoMIPs are nano-structured polymer particles typically containing a single binding site for their target molecule. Like antibodies they have high affinity and selectivity for their target molecule and have application in diagnostics, sensing, assays, detection, separation and purification. However, unlike antibodies, nanoMIPs are chemically synthesised and are robust and stable under extreme physical and chemical conditions. This means that nanoMIPs can be used in conditions where antibodies cannot: for example, as environmental sensors or even in an organic solvent. Clients are working with MIP Diagnostics in a range of application areas, from virus identification to diagnostic kits and bioanalysis, and including applications in the petrochemical industry that would be far beyond the scope of antibodies. The Company’s technology is protected by a strong IP portfolio and is unique in the market in being applicable to a broad range of molecular targets, further enhancing its diversity of application. The R&D team has significant expertise in developing nanoMIPs and is also well-versed in how the nanoMIPs are applied. Gaining an understanding of client’s needs is essential when translating innovative research into a commercial product, and this understanding has contributed greatly to the company’s success. A proactive mindset and can- do culture also prevail in the Commercial team, which is led by senior managers with decades of experience in the life science industry. Excitingly, the company has attracted a significant second round of investment to support further growth and plans to move to new R&D facilities in 2018 and to double head count, recruiting additional experienced R&D and commercial staff to grow its business. This growth is driven by Dr Adrian Kinkaid, CEO, an experienced and visionary bio-industry executive who is aware from his work in the antibody industry of the commercial potential for MIP Diagnostics. There is widespread optimism throughout the company that there is a bright future ahead, as Adrian explains. “2018 will be an exciting year for the industry and especially so for 1804CV35 MIP Diagnostics as we continue to bring our novel technology to our customers around the world.” Company: MIP Diagnostics Ltd Contact: Adrian Kinkaid Address: Fielding Johnson Building, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK Website: www.mip-dx.com