Human Genetic Signatures acquires Danish technology

Human Genetic Signatures has acquired the intellectual property and activities relating to intercalating nucleic acids (INAs) from Unest, a Danish company it helped to found.

HGS CEO Rob Birrell said the acquisition was a very significant and positive event for the Sydney-based private company, which is developing methylation diagnostics and therapeutic platforms for complex human diseases, ageing, drug treatment side effects and adult stem cell transplantation.

INAs are a new generation of synthetic nucleic acids with improved and novel properties compared to DNA and other synthetic nucleic acids. The use of INAs would complement HGS's methylation technology and allow the company to accelerate its programs, Birrell said.

"We originally had a license to use INAs in the methylation field, but every way we use them we get significant results," Birrell said.

"We have identified specific areas where the unique characteristics of INAs would be applicable, and will explore these with our collaborators."

The activities of Unest will be relocated at HGS's Sydney offices.