Oligonucleotide therapeutics are a type of drug used for diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, and Alzheimer’s. The global market for them was valued at £6.61 billion in 2021 and is estimated to reach £28.10 billion in 2030. However, they face significant challenges because of the limitations of the traditional manufacturing method, limiting current global production capacity and have a significant environmental footprint from the manufacturing process.
Exactmer has developed a revolutionary platform technology, Nanostar Sieving to produce oligonucleotides at large scale minimising the reagents and solvents used in the production process. This leads to a reduction of the manufacturing costs and improves sustainability of the process.
As Vice President of Business Dr Cristina Bertulli is responsible for the business development activities at Exactmer. She recognises that the Shott Scale Up Accelerator can help her advance knowledge on raising venture capital financing, which will be required to support the company’s scaling and growth plans.
Christina notes that the Shott Scale Up Accelerator training workshops will: “provide me with the tools and frameworks to develop my business skills. The coaching and mentoring will enable me to develop my leadership skills and gain valuable insights and guidance from experienced business leaders.” She also looks forward to the networking opportunities the Royal Academy of Engineering offers, which will enable her to expand her network and build relationships with professionals and experts in similar industries.
Exactmer is in the process of scaling up its technology to supply customers with kg-scale batches of their therapeutics and accelerate the adoption of Nanostar Sieving by the market. This would establish Exactmer as a dominant technology provider for commercial manufacturing of oligonucleotide therapeutics. The Shott Scale Up Accelerator will enable Christina to develop the skills required to develop strategic partnerships, raise financing, and expand the commercial team.
