OptiBiotix Health plc (LON:OPTI) has told investors it is making good progress on both a scientific and commercial front.
In the lab, the group has shown that its novel oligosaccharides – carbohydrates that consist of a small number of sugars – can reduce cholesterol in human gut models by more than 20%.
It also continues to promote its research into the manipulation of the microbiome to treat illnesses and improve health generally.
OptiBiotix also mentions the potential for a “precision microbiome medicine”, with growing evidence suggesting that the microbiome plays an important role in how the body reacts to pharmaceutical products.
Both of these studies have been submitted for publication in various journals and conferences across the globe next year.
On a commercial front, the York-based group said it has reached late stage commercial discussions with six partners across its product and technology platforms.
A number of these discussions have been going on for a considerable period of time and have involved extensive due diligence, OptiBiotix added.
Although it feels it is putting its best foot forward, the group reminded investors that it cannot guarantee that any of talks will lead to a deal being agreed.
“The company believes it is making strong scientific progress across all its technology and product platforms,” said chief executive Stephen O’Hara.
“These research findings add to the growing scientific evidence base of how OptiBiotix's technology influences the microbiome to prevent, manage, and treat disease.
“This helps convert existing commercial interest into commercial deals and opens up opportunities in new markets.
“The overall aim being to develop multiple revenue streams from both consumer and pharmaceutical products across all its technology platforms.”
Shares were up 4% on Tuesday Morning to 65.4p.