Conferences & Events

NATA presents at the 2024 Annual Meeting of the Oligonucleotide Therapeutics Society

14 November 2024
Omer and Pete representing NATA at the 20th Annual Oligonucleotide Therapeutics Society Meeting in Montreal

Last month, NATA had the pleasure of participating in the 20th Annual Oligonucleotide Therapeutics Society (OTS) Meeting, held in Montreal, Canada. This event brought together leaders from across the globe to share the latest advancements in the community of oligonucleotide therapeutics. 

Representing NATA, our Research Scientist, Omer Lustgarten, from the Chemistry Department, and our Head of Biology, Pete Oliver, presented two posters highlighting recent developments in our research projects. 

 

Tackling cell-specific delivery challenges 

Omer's poster addressed the challenge of cell-specific delivery for oligonucleotide therapeutics. This research explored an approach using antibody conjugation to enhance targeting and uptake. The team conjugated a well-published oligonucleotide sequence (targeting the gene MALAT-1) known for its efficiency and reproducibility in gene knockdown, to a VH single-domain protein. VH fragments are the smallest antibody fragments, offering superior tissue penetration and the ability to bind specific cell receptors. The project successfully produced a mixture of Malat-1-VH conjugates, marking a significant step forward in developing more precise delivery methods. Looking ahead, the team plans to test the biological activity, biodistribution, cellular uptake, and stability of these conjugates to advance their potential therapeutic applications further. 

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Omer presenting his research poster at the OTS Meeting

Innovation in oligonucleotide detection

Pete's poster focused on advancing detection methods for antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) through the development of specialised antibodies targeting specific chemical modifications. Traditional fluorescent tagging methods can alter the stability and behaviour of ASOs, making it difficult to track them accurately. This study introduced ModDetect antibodies, designed to specifically target phosphorothioate (PS) and 2’-methoxyethyl (2’-MOE) modifications, which are commonly used in ASO therapeutics. By targeting these chemical modifications—standard features of ASOs—the ModDetect antibodies can identify oligonucleotides regardless of their nucleotide sequence, making them versatile tools for various biological assays. The research demonstrated that these antibodies effectively detected ASO gapmers in cell cultures and mouse tissues, offering a more streamlined and efficient approach to studying oligonucleotide uptake and distribution in future research. 

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Pete with his poster on advanced detection methods for antisense oligonucleotides

See you next year OTS! 

Both posters were met with enthusiasm and engaging discussions. The OTS Meeting provided a platform to connect with KOLs and exchange ideas that are shaping the future of oligonucleotide therapeutics. We’re proud to be part of this community, we look forward to future innovations and collaborations that will shape the future of oligonucleotide therapeutics.

 

Click here to view their posters on our website. 

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