Analysing the microscopic structure of food

Starpharma Holdings has signed an agreement with Unilever to co-develop a research tool using Starpharma’s Priostar dendrimer technology. An undisclosed fee is payable to Starpharma’s US subsidiary DNT Inc as part of the arrangement.

Under the agreement, DNT will make its Priostar dendrimers available to Unilever as imaging agents to analyse the microscopic structure of foods. Understanding the microstructure is an important factor in creating appetising food, determining properties such as mouth-feel and controlled release of taste and smell. Unilever’s research and development scientists will use the dendrimers for analysis purposes as part of one of their innovation projects.

“We are delighted to be working with a company of Unilever’s calibre and resources in this highly innovative application of Priostar dendrimers. This agreement underscores the relevance of dendrimers across a wide variety of industries,” commented Dr Robert Berry, president of Starpharma’s US subsidiary Dendritic Nanotechnologies Inc. “Dendrimers are also relevant in the chemicals and materials industries, as well as the pharmaceutical and medical sectors.”

This is the company’s second agreement with a commercial party for applications of Priostar and it extends Starpharma’s recent commercial arrangements for its dendrimers. These include deals with EMD Chemicals, SSL Plc and dermatology company Stiefel Laboratories Inc.