Oxford Immunotec and Lophius Biosciences are to collaborate on the development of novel T-cell based diagnostic test systems.

Under the terms of the new intellectual property deal, Oxford Immunotec will gain rights to develop and commercialise T-cell based assays using Lophius' proprietary UREA technology in certain territories.

In exchange, Lophius will be permitted to create T-cell based assays under a licence to Oxford Immunotec's T-SPOT technology, with financial terms of the agreement remaining undisclosed.

Dr Peter Wrighton-Smith, chief executive officer of Oxford Immunotec, said: "We believe that Lophius' Urea technology has distinct advantages over conventional methods of designing and producing antigens for T-cell based diagnostic test systems."

Oxford Immunotec is a global immunology-focused diagnostic company that is responsible for developing the T-Spot TB test, for use in the detection of latent tuberculosis infections.

Founded in 2002, the company is headquartered in Abingdon and bases its research on world-leading studies from the University of Oxford.