Glycans, known as sugars or carbohydrates, are essential molecules present in all living things. They play a key role in the regulation of the immune system and are related to diseases such as Alzheimer’s and cancer. Aware of their importance, Asparia Glycomics, a company from Basque Country, founded in 2016 as a spin-off from the CIC biomaGUNE research centre, has specialised in the commercialisation of tools and methodologies for the analysis and engineering of glycans.
Among its most innovative developments is CarboQuant Standards, a patented technology that uses carbon 13-labelled N-glycans to identify useful markers for diseases such as cancer. This breakthrough has been introduced to the market through products, kits and proprietary software. Through constant interaction with customers, the company has expanded its services, offering customised solutions such as the synthesis of complex sugars and the analysis of specific samples.
Asparia Glycomics operates internationally, with a particular focus on the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors, collaborating with multinationals, small companies and startups, as well as academic groups. Its short-term objective is to diversify its client portfolio and expand its presence in various therapeutic areas, consolidating its position as a global benchmark in the glycomics market. To this end, the company seeks to increase its international visibility and strengthen its team with highly qualified professionals.
In addition, Asparia plans to expand its facilities to manage more projects and operate on a larger scale, responding to the growing demands of its customers. This growth is backed by the SPRI Group, an organisation that promotes the internationalisation of Basque companies through initiatives such as Basque Trade and Investment, Elkartu and the BEINT Grants.
Looking to the future, Asparia Glycomics aims not only to advance in the detection of ophthalmological diseases, but also to explore the neurocognitive field, with projects aimed at detecting pathologies such as Alzheimer’s disease. Its innovative approach and its connection with the business ecosystem of the Basque Country position it as a key player in the field of global biotechnology.
