KAERI begins technology commercialization of probes developed for diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease

- KAERI and BioActs sign MOA to commercialize probes used in diagnosing Alzheimer’s -

On January 10, the Advanced Radiation Technology Institute (Director General Byung-yeoup Chung) of the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (President Jae-joo Ha) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with BioActs (CEO Jong-joo Na) to pursue joint research and development on the commercialization of technology in manufacturing probes for the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.
 
Led by Dr. Yong-dae Park of KAERI, the team developed probes that emit fluorescent light after binding to beta-amyloid (β-amyloid), which is critically related to Alzheimer’s disease, when administered in the human body. The probes enable the rapid diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease through the use of optical images. The team has patented the technology in Korea, and also submitted an international patent application.

Under the MOA, the two institutes will strengthen cooperation in various areas such as the ▲ development and commercialization of key technology for diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and cancer, ▲ personnel exchange and sharing of research facilities, ▲ development of other radiation technology and overseas market entry.

As a company specializing in biological optical materials, BioActs was named a blue-chip company by the Korea Technology Finance Corporation, and received certification in INNOBIZ, Advanced Technology Center (ATC) of biomolecular markers, and New Excellent Technology (NET). Following the signing of the MOA, BioActs plans to move into the institute as an incubating company and actively participate in the joint research project.

Director General Chung said, “If the technology is successfully commercialized, we expect that we will be able to rapidly diagnose and detect Alzheimer’s disease in the early phase. The institute will continue to cooperate with industries and improve healthcare for all citizens using our advanced radiation-based medical technology.” <End>