Acton-based Neuroptix Corp. has formed a research collaboration with Merck & Co. to evaluate Neuroptix’s diagnostic technology for the detection of Alzheimer’s disease.
In the agreement, Neuroptix will provide NJ-based Merck & Co. with access to its Neuroptix QEL laser eye scanning device, which has been able to detect Alzheimer’s related amyloid aggregates in the eyes of mice in pre-clinical trials.
Neuroptix will receive an upfront payment, annual technology access fees, and payments based on the achievement of development milestones. Merck & Co. will also issue payments for instruments, diagnostic agents, and services. A non-exclusive license will be granted to Merck & Co. so the firm can use Neuroptix’s technology for preclinical and clinical research purposes.
Says Paul Hartung, president and CEO of Neuroptix: “Our goal is to help bring the QEL system closer to becoming a fast, inexpensive and reliable screening test for Alzheimer’s that can be easily administered in a general practitioner’s office, with accurate results.”
