Oligonucleotide Synthetics: An Innovative Approach toward Genetic Engineering

Highlights:

• Introduction
• Recent developments in the industry
• Strategic alliances in the sector

Oligonucleotides are tiny segments of single and double-stranded nucleic acids that are connected to form biological polymers. Typically, a nucleotide consists of three components, viz., a nitrogen-carrying base, a phosphate group, and a five-carbon sugar molecule. DNA and RNA are formed when nucleotides link with other molecules, creating the basic structure of oligonucleotides. Oligonucleotide synthesis refers to the chemical processing of these strands having a definite structure for various medical, forensic, and biological applications. As part of the synthesis procedures, a nucleotide is attached to a solid support like resin and is then attached to other nucleotides sequentially. The deblocking, coupling, capping, and oxidation processes, which are part of this synthesis, help in purifying, extending the oligonucleotide chain.

Recent advancements in oligonucleotide synthesis technologies

The oligonucleotide synthesis industry accounted for $5.198 billion in 2020 and is anticipated to gather a revenue of $26.09 billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 17.10% during 2021-2030. In the last few years, the increasing investments in R&D projects in the medical, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology sectors have opened new avenues for the growth of the industry. In the last few years, for instance, several pharma companies have started developing aptamer-based drugs, antisense therapy, and RNA interference (RNAi) techniques to address current healthcare challenges. These methodologies, which use oligonucleotide synthesis, have enabled businesses to design targeted medications that improve medical outcomes significantly.

Another area where oligonucleotide synthesis technologies have played an important role is in the field of personalized medicine. Personalized medicine, also called precision healthcare, refers to a customized medical approach that has been designed as per individual patient characteristics, lifestyle, genetic makeup, and environment. The use of unique nucleic acids for targeted therapies and developing companion diagnostics has impacted the market positively. Moreover, in recent years, advancements in gene silencing methodologies have helped doctors and medical practitioners block the expression of certain undesirable RNA sequences that are likely to cause certain genetic diseases.

In addition to this, the latest developments in oligonucleotide synthesis techniques have boosted the revenue share of the industry. Apart from the conventional solid-phase processes, several innovative techniques have come up that simplify the procedures involved and enhance their overall productivity. Processes like enzymatic synthesis, array-based synthesis, and phosphite-triester have become quite popular in the medical sector in recent times.

M&A deals between major businesses creating favorable conditions for growth

In the last few years, multinational companies have established strategic alliances with their peers to expand their scope of operations and increase their footprint globally. In October 2021, for instance, Biotage AB, a Swiss life sciences company, announced that it had signed a definitive agreement to acquire ATDBio, an oligonucleotide synthesis firm based in Southampton, UK, for GBP 45m in cash and shares. Biotage AB has been a pioneer in DNA and RNA sequencing technologies, and this deal is anticipated to aid the company in expanding its molecular diagnostics and nucleic acid-based therapeutics departments. In the last few years, Biotage AB has given special emphasis on drug discovery and development, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, which has strengthened its position as a leader in the life sciences domain. This business move is expected to further consolidate the company’s foothold in the market globally.

In June 2024, GSK plc, a multinational pharmaceutical company, issued a press release highlighting the acquisition of Elsie Biotechnologies, a leading biotech firm in San Diego, US, for approximately $50 million. Considered one of the most promising companies in oligonucleotide therapeutics, Elsie Biotechnologies has invested hugely nucleic acid sequencing and drug delivery technologies. Tony Wood, Chief Scientific Officer, GSK, has stated that the acquisition is aimed at integrating the expertise of Elsie Biotechnologies into GSK’s operational workflow, thus streamlining its business approach.

In summary, the growth of the oligonucleotide synthesis industry is expected to accelerate in the coming period owing to the rising use of nucleic acid sequencing techniques in medical, biotechnology, and forensic applications. Additionally, the recent advancements and developments in these synthesis techniques are predicted to open new investment avenues in the sector.

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