New strategies for targeted payload delivery using small engineered scaffold proteins
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan - Skolan för kemi, bioteknologi och hälsa |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 9 775 000 |
| Project duration | June 2019 - May 2022 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Protein research and process development within the area of Biologics |
| Call | Protein research and process development for biologics - larger projects |
Purpose and goal
The overall goal of this new collaborative project was to develop and evaluate new principles as a basis for the next generation of biological drugs. By implementing an efficient work process, we aimed to develop and identify promising candidates for future clinical evaluation and to develop and validate new technologies. Furthermore, the goal was to create future commercial opportunities through IP, expanded product and technology portfolio and possibly start new companies, as well as educate future researchers in the field. All goals are fulfilled.
Expected results and effects
Over 50 biological substances have been evaluated in the project, with two already in clinical testing and several others have potential to reach the clinic. General technologies have been developed and validated, such as pretargeting, prodrugs and biological drug conjugates. The project has resulted in 26 articles, 7 doctoral theses, several degree projects, 5 patent applications, strengthened product and technology portfolio, registration of a new research company, new valuable networks, and has a high potential to greatly strengthen Swedish biotech industry in the future.
Planned approach and implementation
A steering group with representatives from all groups designed an efficient work process, with drug screening, biotech research and production of drug candidates mainly at KTH and Affibody. Promising candidates proceeded to animal models to investigate, e.g. PK and biological effect at Uppsala University. New collaborations with other parties were also established when needed. Research meetings, symposia, courses and social activities resulted in a high-quality interdisciplinary education for younger researchers and valuable networks for everyone in the project.