Newcastle’s Orla seeks funding to advance protein engineering

The company’s protein engineering platform technology allows for the direct interaction of physical devices with biological systems and provides the facility to translate biological events into digital information.

Orla’s engineered surfaces present reproducible and precisely orientated molecules (for example enzymes, receptors or cell adhesion molecules) as single layers. This makes it possible to detect and measure interactions between proteins in real time. The company is applying the technology to biosensor and biochip equipment for use by diagnostic labs, clinicians and researchers.

The lead product is a compact diagnostic device that measures protein interactions in real time without using labelled reagents. The first application of the device will be in rheumatoid arthritis, where measurement of circulating protein biomarkers of the disease will allow early diagnosis and treatment, preventing joint damage and deformity.

Orla will work with Cambridge Consultants to develop the hardware for the project and with leading UK rheumatologist, John Isaacs at Newcastle University in clinical testing.

Orla already generates revenues from contract research and sales of proteins and biosurfaces for sensors and diagnostics, cell culture, protein arrays, and biomaterials. The company works also on nanobiotechnology applications and biological interfaces for analytical devices.

In addition to the current fundraising, the company is looking for partners for co-development of further applications and for market access. Dale Athey, managing director, says, “Electronics and device companies are moving into biotechnology applications, along with existing diagnostics companies, and we see opportunities there.”