Our goal is to use research to provide answers to pressing questions about the future. The results are published in journals and implemented in our products. Below, we present current funded projects in which we are involved:
Technology Platform for Modular Micro-Physiological Systems (TECH-MPS)
Project objectives
TECH-MPS aims to develop a modular MPS platform that combines physical system components with digital process control and integrated data management. Through the seamless integration and analysis of data from manufacturing, cell and tissue preparation, MPS operation, and experimental assays, the aim is to identify data-driven correlations, identify optimization potential, and increase the efficiency of preclinical drug development. At the same time, the use of animal testing is to be further reduced.
Project partners and distribution of tasks
KDS Radeberger Präzisions-, Formen- und Werkzeugbau GmbH (coordinator)
2-component injection molding technology
DELTEC GmbH
Hardware for smart control platform
qualitype GmbH
Middleware for smart control platform, digital twin
Dresden University of Technology, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Carl Gustav Carus Medical Faculty
Cell-based assays for investigating the pathomechanisms of heart attacks, digital twin
Fraunhofer IWS
Design and characterization of the universal MPS platform, digital twin, firmware for smart control platform
Initial situation and motivation
Animal testing continues to be a central component of pharmacological research, but its transferability to humans is limited. As a result, many drug candidates fail in later clinical phases despite promising preclinical results. This leads to long development times, high costs, and low efficiency in drug development.
Human cell-based models in combination with microphysiological systems offer a promising approach here. MPS enable the realistic representation of human cells and tissues in microfluidic environments. However, existing systems are often highly specialized and do not allow for consistent, structured collection and joint evaluation of the data generated throughout the entire workflow.
Project structure and subprojects
The project is divided into several closely linked subprojects with a focus on hardware and software.
A central component is the development of a modular microfluidic construction kit based on standardized basic chips with defined microcirculation systems. Depending on the application, functional modules can be integrated, for example for cell culture, fluid flow, gas and mass exchange, stimulation, and online monitoring. Production is designed for industrial two-component injection molding technology.
In addition, a smart control platform is being developed that connects users, laboratory devices, and higher-level systems via middleware. This enables workflow-based process control, graphical user interfaces, and connection to laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
All data generated in the project is consolidated in digital twins. These form the basis for holistic process mapping and data-driven analyses to optimize systems and processes.
Reference application
The functionality of the platform is demonstrated using an MPS-based model of myocardial infarction as an example. For this purpose, human cardiac cell and tissue models are established, which can be used to investigate pathophysiological processes in vitro and evaluate potential therapeutic approaches.
Funding
The TECH-MPS project is funded by the Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB) with funds from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Free State of Saxony from August 15, 2025, to December 31, 2027. The funding logos are displayed in accordance with the applicable funding guidelines.
Development of clinical biomarkers for radioligand therapy in precision oncology (EBiRa)
Project objectives
Within the Saxon Network for Radionuclide Theranostics, the EBiRa alliance aims to exploit synergies through close cooperation. The creation of a digitally networked local alliance with a sustainable shared knowledge base is a decisive step toward promoting cooperation and knowledge exchange between science, medicine, and industry.
One important field of application that could benefit from this networking is radionuclide theranostics. The project focuses on the development of clinical biomarkers for radioligand therapy in precision oncology. Extending this field of application to other clinical indications could offer new treatment options and improved patient care by combining diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Project partners and distribution of tasks
BIOTYPE
Molecular precision diagnostics
Biotechnology Center (BIOTEC)
Research center for innovative technologies
Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital Dresden
Leading in the treatment of complex, particularly severe, or rare diseases
qualitype GmbH
Software partner for digital laboratory results
Initial situation and motivation
The Saxon Network for Radionuclide Theranostics (SNRT) is involved in the development, manufacture, and application of radionuclide-labeled drugs (radiopharmaceuticals) for the European market. Radiopharmaceuticals have been used for many years and are well established in nuclear medicine for the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular or neurodegenerative diseases.
The SNRT brings together the unique expertise of scientific, clinical, and business partners along the entire value chain to enable innovation in nuclear medicine as well as in physics related to accelerators and the production of radionuclides. Nuclear medicine is currently experiencing rapid growth worldwide. The SNRT wants to seize the opportunity to be at the forefront of this development.
Project structure and subprojects
The project is divided into several closely linked sub-networks.
Within the EBiRa joint project, which is aimed at developing new clinical biomarkers for radioligand therapy, the subproject focuses on the digital mapping of clinically relevant processes for radiotheranostics and their extension to include aspects of molecular diagnostics.
The subproject aims to ensure data integrity between the participating systems and partners and enable optimal use of existing data for therapy decisions. In addition, the data generated during the project will be made available as a structured source of information for further research and development.
Reference application
t.b.a.
Funding
t.b.a.
