CellNova - a VINNOVA centre for development and production of next generation biological drugs
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan - Avdelningen för proteomik |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 44 000 000 |
| Project duration | January 2018 - December 2024 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Center for biologics |
| Call | Center Biologics 2017 |
Important results from the project
CellNova has used real industrial examples from biological production to improve methods and optimize production. Key achievements include the development of tools to optimize yeast and CHO cell factories, as well as a unique resource of human proteins that has been used for drug development. The center has also developed drug candidates with promising preclinical results. Seven PhD students have graduated, strengthening Sweden’s industry and expertise in biological drug development.
Expected long term effects
CellNova has fostered partnerships and cross-disciplinary interactions, driving future synergies. Knowledge gained on protein production in mammalian and yeast cells has led to tools for optimization that will be used to enhance production. The human protein library will continue to support scientific development, and the novel bacterial surface display system will be used for binder development. Additionally, the preclinical AffiMAbs platform holds promise for bispecific therapeutics.
Approach and implementation
The CellNova center was structured around four interconnected programs. Over time, the partnership landscape evolved. SOBI exited in Year 2 due to a discontinuation of its research activities, and Biopetrolia (now Marbel & Melt) scaled back its involvement in Year 4 after a shift in business focus. Meanwhile, other partners increased their contributions. In Year 6, a strategic decision was made to apply for a one-year extension, concentrating on mammalian cell production and binder development.