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NANBIOSIS Unit invited to PEGS, the Protein & Antibody Engineering Summit

NANBIOSIS’s Protein Production Platform showcased innovations in protein engineering at PEGS Europe 2024, featuring talks, posters, and session moderation.

Barcelona, november 2024. Last month, the NBT group and Unit 1 of NANBIOSIS (Protein Production Platform, PPP), from CIBER-BBN and IBB-UAB, was invited once again to participate in the prestigious PEGS Europe conference.

PEGS Europe, a prestigous conference

This year, the 16th PEGS Europe conference was held in Barcelona from November 5th to 7th. PEGS, or the Protein & Antibody Engineering Summit, is organized by the Cambridge Healthtech Institute (CHI) and is renowned for its focus on protein engineering and its applications in drug discovery, development, and delivery.

The NBT group and PPP from NANBIOSIS have been invited again to participate in the congress through two invited oral presentations and two posters, one of them also invited. Therefore, the PPP technical coordinator has been also invited to moderate the “protein process development” session.

The participation of our Protein Production Platform

Dr. Eric Voltà group presented the invited talk ‘Expanding the Boundaries of E.coli Disulfide-Rich Protein Nanoparticles That Selectively Destroy Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts’ within the track ‘Cell Line and Systems Engineering’.

Dr. Jose Luís Corchero Nieto presented the invited talk ‘Production of Vault-Like Nanoparticles in a Prokaryotic Expression System’ inside the ‘Protein Process Development’ track.

Roger Fernandez Palomeras exposed the poster ‘Engineering Recombinant Human Vaults to Target Cancer Stem Cells’.

Dr. Merce Márquez Martínez, technical coordinator of Unit 1 (PPP), was invited to moderate the ‘Protein Process Development’ track, present the poster ‘Optimization of Protein Solubility and Recovery of Precipitated Proteins’. She also has contributed as a co-author of the invited talk ‘Ferritin Vaccine Platform for Multiple Displays of IHNV Glycoprotein’ in the ‘Optimising Expression Platforms’ track by Sohrab Ahmadivand.

Dr. Eric Voltà, Dr. Jose Luís Corchero Nieto, Roger Fernandez Palomeras, Dr. Merce Márquez Martínez and other invited speakers during the PEGS Conference.

This invitation solidifies the prestige of our Protein Production Platform and the researchers involved in it. With its focus on transversal application of protein engineering, this event contributes significantly to find new solutions to overcome current healthcare challenges and foster collaboration with our researchers.

What is NANBIOSIS?

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions with priority access, enter our Competitive Call here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

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The Protein Production Platform (PPP) at the UAB Innovation Fair

The PPP advances antimicrobial peptide research, forging partnerships to combat antibiotic resistance and prevent medical device-related infections.

Barcelona, october 2024. During Antibiotic Awareness Week, we spotlight the Protein Production Platform (PPP) at NANBIOSIS Unit 1 for its pivotal role in combating antimicrobial resistance.

At the recent UAB Innovation Fair, the PPP showcased its cutting-edge technologies and established collaborations with experts in bacterial biofilms and nanomaterials. Together, they aim to develop innovative antimicrobial peptides as alternatives to traditional antibiotics, targeting nosocomial infections linked to medical devices. These efforts underscore the critical importance of advancing research and partnerships to address one of the greatest global health challenges: antibiotic resistance.

Protein Production Platform at the UAB Innovation Fair

Las month, our Unit 1, also known as Protein Production Platform (PPP), participated in the second edition of the UAB Innovation Fair, held at the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB). The event served as a vibrant meeting point for research groups, spin-offs, and companies, all focused to explore potential synergies and collaborative opportunities.

The fair provided an excellent platform for the PPP to showcase its capabilities and services. During the event, our Unit established valuable contacts with several diagnostic companies and protein research groups. These interactions not only highlighted the potential benefits these entities could gain from our services, but also opened the door to collaborations that could further enhance the platform’s offerings.

In addition to these interactions, the PPP, as part of the Nanobiotechnology (NBT) research group, connected with specialists in bacterial biofilms and nanomaterials. These experts expressed interest in collaborating on our research focused on antimicrobial peptides aimed at developing alternatives to traditional antibiotics, with the goal of preventing nosocomial infections associated with medical devices.

The PPP’s active participation in the UAB Innovation Fair not only highlights its commitment to advancing scientific research but also demonstrates its dedication to creating impactful partnerships. By engaging with a diverse array of stakeholders, the PPP is well-positioned to drive forward innovative solutions and contribute to the broader scientific community.

The fair was a resounding success, providing a dynamic environment for knowledge exchange and collaboration. The PPP looks forward to building on the connections made during the event and continuing to play a crucial role in the advancement of protein production technologies, nanobiotechnology research, as well as the ongoing battle against antimicrobial resistance.

A few pictures of the **Unit 1** leaders and collaborators during the event.

The Protein Production Platform (PPP), also known as NANBIOSIS Unit 1, specializes in the production, purification, and characterization of recombinant proteins and biomaterials. It leverages state-of-the-art technologies to support biomedical and nanotechnology research, focusing on applications such as cancer treatment, antimicrobial resistance, and advanced protein delivery systems. Operated by the Nanobiotechnology Group at the Autonomous University of Barcelona, it serves academic and industrial clients with customized solutions for protein engineering and synthesis.

What is NANBIOSIS?

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions with priority access, enter our Competitive Call here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

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Knowdlege growth: A chart-guide for cloning, production, purification, and characterization of recombinant proteins from prokaryotic systems

The Nanobiotechnology Group and NANBIOSIS PPP have created a poster-guide for recombinant protein cloning, production, and purification in prokaryotic systems.

Barcelona, october 2024. The Nanobiotechnology Group, led by Prof. Villaverde, in collaboration with the NANBIOSIS Unit 1, Protein Production Platform (PPP), directed by Dr. Ferrer-Miralles, has created an in-depth guide in the form of a poster that compiles key strategies for cloning, production, purification, and characterization of recombinant proteins expressed in prokaryotic systems.

Drawing from their vast experience in the field, they have meticulously outlined techniques and best practices to address common challenges and optimize every stage of the process. The poster covers various aspects of recombinant protein workflow, including selecting the right expression vectors, optimizing culture conditions, purification strategies, and the essential steps for characterizing the final purified protein.

The poster is displayed at the PPP facilities for easy consultation by anyone interested and is also available in the platform website to provide wider support to scientists in overcoming common challenges in the recombinant protein field.

The development of this poster reflects the collective expertise of the Nanobiotechnology Group and PPP in the field of recombinant proteins, gained through years of hands-on research.

The development of this poster reflects the collective expertise of the Nanobiotechnology Group and PPP in the field of recombinant proteins, gained through years of hands-on research. Understanding the critical role that recombinant proteins play in fields ranging from drug development to bioengineering they aim to equip researchers with the tools they have found useful for troubleshooting challenges in recombinant protein production.

The doors of the PPP are always open to provide guidance and technical support, if necessary, to the entire scientific community in the successful isolation of highly pure, soluble, stable, and active recombinant proteins, not only in procaryotic expression systems, but also using mammalian and insect cells.

Download full guide in PDF (free of charge)

What is NANBIOSIS?

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions with priority access, enter our Competitive Call here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

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Harnessing Nanotechnology in protein research: Insights from Dr. Neus Ferrer on new ways of fighting antimicrobial resistance

Dr. Neus Ferrer explores nanotechnology in protein research to combat antimicrobial resistance, focusing on innovative solutions using lysins and other recombinant proteins.

Barcelona, October 2024. In celebration of Nanotechnology Day, we take a closer look at the cutting-edge work of Dr. Neus Ferrer, director of the Unit 1, Protein Production Platform (PPP), at NANBIOSIS. Specializing in recombinant protein synthesis, Dr. Ferrer’s research tackles critical challenges in healthcare, particularly antimicrobial resistance, often referred to as the “new pandemic”. Through advanced nanotechnology approaches, her team in develops innovative solutions that could revolutionize treatment options in biomedicine and beyond.

The interview begins…

Interviewer: Welcome to these interview series, Neus. Let’s get started. First of, could you share with us a bit about your research area and the projects you’re currently working on?

Neus Ferrer: Throughout my career, I’ve mainly focused my projects on the production of recombinant proteins. In this field, I’ve worked on many areas related to biomedicine, primarily cancer and antibiotic resistance. Lately, I’ve been more focused on the latter: exploring new alternatives or synergistic possibilities with the use of antibiotics.

Antibiotic resistance is often referred to as the “new pandemic”, a massive issue. Many of us know people affected by antibiotic resistance: infections that aren’t detected in time or are misdiagnosed, which leads to resistance. this is sometimes the case of nosocomial infections. This requires us to update our tools to fight these resistant infectious agents. Could you tell us more about the strategies you use to tackle this problem?

Neus: Based on our understanding of how organisms interact with these microorganisms to overcome infections and how they communicate to inhibit or proliferate, we extract the factors that help control microorganisms and formulate them to interact at the infection site. All this is done using the same biological language that exists in these relationships. It’s basically combining the natural mechanisms that we and the scientific community have been investigating and discovering.

Could you give us a recent example of a strategy you’ve used in a project or publication you’re working on?

Neus: Yes, for example, we recently worked on producing proteins with notable antimicrobial activity: lysins. These are used by bacteriophages after completing their cycle [within the bacteria] to release themselves into the environment, meaning they can lyse and eliminate bacteria. Using this activity, we can also formulate these proteins to act on microorganisms in a somewhat specific way —not entirely, but it can be modulated.

Interesting. Tell us a bit about yourself on a personal level. What motivated you to pursue a career in science? What sparked that curiosity that all scientists seem to have?

Neus: I suppose it’s the curiosity of wanting to understand why we’re here, what we are, and how life works. How we function on a molecular level, how these interactions happen. I think it’s about finding meaning in what we do here, answering the question of where we’re going and what we’re doing.

That curiosity seems to be a common thread. Many people I’ve interviewed say the same thing. Have you had any “Eureka” moments in your career? Anything that stands out as your biggest contribution to your field, either professionally or personally?

Neus: I don’t think I’ve had any major “Eureka” moments, but rather several moderately intense ones. I remember during my PhD, at the time, recombinant techniques weren’t widely used yet, so I had to purify a protein from its natural origin, which was a very long and tedious process. When I finally managed to purify and identify the protein, that was a real “Eureka” moment for me —more on a personal level than in a professional one.
Later on, I had another moment while looking back at my work and reviewing the progress in recombinant proteins in the biopharmaceutical field. Summarizing and reflecting on the field was another significant “Eureka” for me because it allowed me to consolidate my experience along with that of others and present it in a way that could be useful to others.

It must be gratifying to see how much progress has been made with recombinant techniques, which you witnessed at their inception. Could you explain the recombinant technique to a general audience?

Neus: In biological systems, proteins perform numerous functions, but there are control mechanisms, and they’re only produced when needed. If you identify a protein with a function that’s useful for biomedicine, in natural systems, you typically have very small amounts. This was a drawback because you needed large quantities to get a little of the target protein. With molecular biology techniques, it’s possible to introduce genetic material into a cell artificially, making the cell produce a specific protein. This allows for large-scale production, which was revolutionary.

“With molecular biology techniques, it’s possible to introduce genetic material into a cell artificially, making the cell produce a specific protein. This allows for large-scale production, which was revolutionary.”
— Dr Neus Ferrer

By introducing external genes, you’re essentially turning organisms into protein factories. But earlier, you mentioned lysins, which are designed to kill bacteria. How do you prevent the bacteria from dying as they produce these proteins?

Neus: That’s an interesting question. Initially, we thought there would be difficulties producing these proteins within bacterial cells, as they have the activity of lysing them. However, we selected lysins that could theoretically be produced in our best prokaryotic production system, Escherichia coli. Additionally, we formulated the proteins in a way that they form small protein nanoparticles, reducing the biological activity within the cell.

So, the proteins naturally form these structures, preventing the bacteria from being affected by the lysins. Fascinating. Moving on to a more personal topic: What advice would you give to young people considering a career in science?

Neus: I’d encourage them to be brave, especially women. We need more women in science because society is 50% women, and science should reflect that. They should believe they can achieve the same or more than men, and I pass the torch to both men and women to move forward with their ideas.

What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your scientific career?

Neus: Job stability is the biggest challenge. The field is very competitive, and you have to give your 150-200%. But if you have that curiosity and motivation, you need to keep pushing forward. There are many success stories, like mine, where we’ve stabilized later in my career. So, I encourage everyone with that curiosity to pursue it and keep trying.

What support have you found most helpful in your career?

Neus: Collaboration is key. It’s crucial to share ideas and work as a team. Many opportunities arise from collaborations, whether it’s through partnerships or learning about new opportunities.

That’s far from the fictional image of the lone scientist in a lab. Collaboration is essential. And this is exactly what NANBIOSIS promotes. Can you tell us about the Unit you work in within NANBIOSIS and your role in it?

Neus: I’m in Unit 1, the Protein Production Platform (PPP), where I’m the scientific director. Since 2007, we’ve worked on over 400 projects, interacting with CIBER groups, companies, hospitals, technology centers and universities, including the university we are located at, the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona.

That’s a beautiful journey from your early thesis days to leading a platform that returns research to society. How does NANBIOSIS contribute to academic research?

Neus: We’ve seen how our support helps researchers grow their projects in a wide variety of areas. We centralize knowledge and offer methodologies that would take years for groups to develop on their own. The projects that we work in are from a high level of complexity. It’s a challenging, but very rewarding role.

What about the private sector? How can NANBIOSIS contribute to the industry?

Neus: We’ve collaborated with the industry at various levels, helping with basic research and diagnostics. It’s different from academic work, but equally gratifying. Though you might not see the results for years, knowing you’ve contributed to a product reaching a patient is very fulfilling.

NANBIOSIS has Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions (CEBS) that present synergies between the Units in the network. How do these help solve market problems?

Neus: We offer a platform that can assist clients through the process, from basic research to a pre-clinical stage. Our expertise in recombinant proteins is crucial for this, and we are capable of producing recombinant proteins of any kind. We have the know-how and the capabilities for doing si.

How has NANBIOSIS contributed to your career?

Neus: NANBIOSIS has allowed me to materialize my knowledge into a platform that can pass this on to the future —whether through students or external clients. It’s a way to give back. We see this in a daily basis, because there are always students that come along with us who learn our methodologies. Our external clients also learn from us if they need it, not just providing them with services. For me, NANBIOSIS is all that: the ability, one way or another, to trasnfer the knowledge I acquired during all these years and make it tangible.

Thank you, Neus, for your time and insights.

Neus: Thank you! See you again.

This interview is fully available in Spanish in our Youtube channel (click here).

What is NANBIOSIS?

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions with priority access, enter our Competitive Call here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

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Protein-only Materials offer a new hope in colorectal cancer treatment

Breakthrough colorectal cancer treatment unveiled by NANBIOSIS Units promises enhanced precision & efficacy in targeted cancer therapies.

March 2024, UAB/Institut de Recerca Sant Pau/CIBER-BBN (Barcelona)

As we leave World Colorectal Cancer Day 2024 behind, marked on March 31st, there have been significant highlights in cancer treatment, a field in which targeted therapies are playing a crucial role.

In this context, researchers from the Nanobiotechnology team, at the Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina from Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, led by Prof. Antonio Villaverde, in collaboration with the Oncogenesis and Antitumor Drugs team led by Prof. Ramón Mangues at Institut de Recerca Sant Pau, have made a significant breakthrough in the treatment of colorectal cancer. Their innovative approach, facilitated by their respective Unit 1 and Unit 18 of NANBIOSIS, promises to revolutionize current treatment methodologies and improve patient outcomes.

“In a clinical context, the use of these materials in the treatment of colorectal cancer should greatly improve the drug’s efficacy and patient comfort while minimizing unwanted side effects.”
Prof. Antonio Villaverde, Strategy Director of Unit 1

“It is important to highlight that such accumulation is more effective than when the protein is administered into the bloodstream. This fact offers a new and unexpected way to ensure high local levels of the drug and better clinical efficacy, avoiding repeated intravenous administration regimens,” explains Prof. Villaverde. “In a clinical context, the use of these materials in the treatment of colorectal cancer should greatly improve the drug’s efficacy and patient comfort while minimizing unwanted side effects.”

The team’s groundbreaking research centers around the development of self-contained protein-only materials at the microscale, capable of delivering therapeutic polypeptides in a time-prolonged manner. These materials, resembling the organization of secretory granules within the human endocrine system, are engineered to release functional polypeptide nanoparticles. These nanoparticles can selectively target tumors and destroy specific types of cancer cells, offering a promising avenue for more effective and precise cancer treatment.

The publication:

Notably, the researchers thorougly explored the molecular structure and dynamics of the secretion process of these materials, both in vitro and in vivo. In preclinical trials using an animal model of colorectal cancer, the system demonstrated remarkable efficacy upon subcutaneous administration. This was thanks to the released protein nanoparticles accumulating efficiently in tumor tissues. Importantly, this accumulation was found to be more effective than traditional intravenous administration methods, offering a novel strategy to ensure high local drug levels while minimizing systemic side effects.

A) Diagram illustrating theprotein administration protocol in a colorectal cancer mouse model. B) Accumulation of fluorescence in the tumour at days 1 and 10 after the administration, in two alternative formats (“IN” and “MPs”). Research product of a collaboration between NANBIOSIS **Unit 1** and **Unit 18**. For more information, check the full publication at Adv. Sci. 2024, 2309427.

Furthermore, several competitive research and technology transfer projects supported this research, as well as intramural CIBER-BBN projects. This further highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and funding initiatives in driving scientific progress.

The team’s work underscores the importance of continued investment in research and collaboration to tackle the challenges posed by colorectal cancer and other malignancies. As World Colorectal Cancer Day is observed globally, this breakthrough offers hope for a future where innovative treatments pave the way for improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life for cancer patients worldwide.

The successful development of this innovative treatment approach was possible through the collaborative efforts of two NANBIOSIS Units: the Protein Production Platform (Unit 1) and the Nanotoxicology Unit (Unit 18).

References:

[1] J. M. Sánchez, H. López-Laguna, E. Parladé, A. D. Somma, A. L. Livieri, P. Álamo, R. Mangues, U. Unzueta, A. Villaverde, E. Vázquez, Structural Stabilization of Clinically Oriented Oligomeric Proteins During their Transit through Synthetic Secretory Amyloids. Adv. Sci. 2024, 2309427. https://doi.org/10.1002/advs.202309427

About NANBIOSIS:

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NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

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New immunization research for SARS-CoV-2 with the collaboration of NANBIOSIS

This novel immunization platform, recently published in ACS, triggers potent antivirus response, promising efficient and cost-effective vaccination.

March 2024, UAB/Vall d’Hebron Research Institute/CIBER-BBN (Barcelona)

The battle against infectious diseases demands innovative solutions. The world is especially aware of this fact after facing threats such as the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. In a very recent publication in ACS Materials Letters, researchers from the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) and Hospital de Sant Pau, both within the CIBER-BBN, have achieved a significant milestone in vaccine development. Their study, conducted in partnership with international teams as well as NANBIOSIS, has introduced a novel immunization approach utilizing synthetic protein secretory granules.

These protein materials, developed by the team and highlighted in the study, exhibit endocrine-like functionalities tailored for the sustained release of protein drugs in oncology. At the microscale, these self-organized, self-contained protein granules undergo a spontaneous disintegration process associated with secretion, releasing their protein building blocks under physiological conditions. This technology, developed in collaboration with NANBIOSIS units, particularly the Protein Production Platform (Unit 1) and Nanotoxicology (Unit 18), holds promise beyond oncology, extending to various biomedical applications.

A promising solution to address not only existing infectious diseases but also future emerging threats.

The ACS publication:

In their work published last February 2024 [1], the researchers explored the potential of these synthetic protein secretory granules as an antigen delivery system for SARS-CoV-2. Thus, by utilizing a recombinant form of the virus’s receptor-binding domain, they investigated its efficacy in inducing neutralizing antibody responses in mice. Notably, the granules were administered without adjuvants, demonstrating their ability to trigger potent antivirus neutralizing responses.

Graphical abstract of the ACS Materials Letters paper, product of a collaboration with NANBIOSIS **Unit 1** and **Unit 18**. ACS Materials Lett. 2024, 6, 3, 954-962.

The implications of this study are profound. Beyond the immediate context of COVID-19, this innovative immunization platform opens doors to more efficient vaccine delivery methods. By reducing dosage, costs, and the complexity of vaccination regimens, it presents a promising solution to address not only existing infectious diseases but also future emerging threats.

The collaborative nature of this research underscores the importance of synergistic partnerships. Alongside local institutions such as CIBER-BBN, ICREA, Institut de Recerca from Hospital Vall d’Hebró, and Hospital de Sant Pau, international collaboration with the University of São Paulo in Brazil has enriched the study’s scope and insights.

Funding for this groundbreaking research was provided by AGAUR through project 2020PANDE00003, and by CIBER-BBN through Intramural Projects NANOSARS and NANOREMOTE. Such support highlights the societal and scientific significance of this endeavor, emphasizing its potential to shape the future of vaccination strategies.

This publication marks a significant step forward in the fight against infectious diseases, showcasing the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and driving us towards a safer, healthier future. One in which NANBIOSIS will certainly contribute with the undisputable expertise of its researchers.

References:

[1] Zinc-Assisted Microscale Granules Made of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Trigger Neutralizing, Antivirus Antibody Responses. Marianna T. P. Favaro, Patricia Alamo, Nerea Roher, Miguel Chillon, Jara Lascorz, Merce Márquez, José Luis Corchero, Rosa Mendoza, Carlos Martínez-Torró, Neus Ferrer-Miralles, Luis C. S. Ferreira, Ramón Mangues, Esther Vázquez, Eloi Parladé, and Antonio Villaverde. ACS Materials Lett. 2024, 6, 3, 954–962. February 14, 2024 https://doi.org/10.1021/acsmaterialslett.3c01643

About NANBIOSIS:

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

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NANBIOSIS U1_Protein Production Platform expands its facilities at the Autonomous University of Barcelona, strengthening its capabilities.

NANBIOSIS Unit 1 Protein Production Platform (PPP) of CIBER-BBN and UAB, has taken a significant step towards enhancing its service capabilities in the field of recombinant protein production and purification.

Until now, due to space constraints at the Institute of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (IBB), U1’s activities were confined to half of a small laboratory. However, thanks to the ongoing commitment of the center to bolster the PPP’s activities, this unit has gained access to a laboratory, along with an office, exclusively designated for the platform within the IBB premises, creating an optimal environment for the process of protein production and purification.

This initiative has not only solidified the space that PPP occupies within the IBB and the UAB but also signifies a boost for UAB’s internal services, reinforcing its position as an integral part of ICTS NANBIOSIS, thereby strengthening its commitment to research and scientific excellence.

The center, in its steadfast support for PPP’s activities, has prioritized the allocation of this new space over other needs, recognizing the potential and strategic importance of this service for advancing molecular research, not only within the institution but also within the scientific community at large.

The immediate impact of this facility expansion has resulted in the provision of an optimal space to accommodate all FPLC-AKTA purification equipment, essential for providing quality service. Additionally, new equipment has been acquired, notably including the incorporation of a large-sized refrigerator capable of housing a FPLC-AKTA unit. This development represents a qualitative leap, enabling the PPP to optimize processes for purifying thermosensitive proteins.

The new spaces of the PPP are now adjacent to the spaces of the Nanobiotechnology Group (NBT), enhancing the exchange of information and knowledge between both, and facilitating direct access to shared resources, thereby stimulating interaction. The combination of expertise in protein design and purification with specialization in nanobiotechnology opens up a broad horizon for innovation and the development of disruptive solutions in various fields.

In the words of the responsible team, “this expansion represents a significant step forward, allowing NANBIOSIS U1 not only to advance in its current service provision but also to open doors to new improvement opportunities”.

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Good News! Protein Nanoparticles with a New Ligand Select and Destroy Tumor-associated Fibroblasts”

With the participation of two units of NANBIOSIS ICTS and the expertise of the scientists managing these units

The study, fruit of the collaboration between the Nanotechnology group of the Institute of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (IBB-UAB), led by Prof. Antonio Villaverde, and the Oncogenesis and Antitumor Drugs group of the Sant Pau Research Institute, led by Dr. Ramon Mangues, both members of CIBER-BBN, has made significant progress by identifying the natural ligand PDGFD as an effective tool to target protein nanoparticles to tumor-associated fibroblasts that overexpress the PDGFR-β receptor. Given the relevance of the discovery, this technology has been intellectually protected by a patent that is currently being processed (PCT/EP2023/081937).

The research, the details of which have recently been published in the journal Acta Biomaterialia, presents an innovative strategy focused on the development of protein nanoparticles that assemble autonomously and are capable of selectively recognizing and destroying tumor-associated fibroblasts with high levels of PDGFR-β. This cell type plays a fundamental role in the tumor microenvironment, providing mechanical and biological support for tumor growth and progression in various types of cancers.

Taking advantage of their solid experience in the development of tumor-targeting protein nanoparticles and their functional characterization in in vitro and in vivo models of different types of cancer, both groups set out on this occasion to design new nanoparticles targeting tumor-associated fibroblasts with PDGFR-β overexpression. Among the different ligands tested, PDGFD has been selected for its ability to induce selective penetration into target cells both in vitro and in vivo, using a murine model with a subcutaneous tumor. In these experiments, the PDGFD-GFP-H6 fusion protein, formed by the chosen ligand, the green fluorescent protein and a histidine tail with an important role in obtaining nanoparticles, accumulates precisely in tumor tissues, demonstrating its ability from being delivered in tumor.

By replacing GFP with a microbial toxin present in antitumor treatments approved for clinical use, a significant reduction in tumor volume growth is observed, without showing toxic collateral effects in mice. In this way, the PDGFR-β/PDGFD couple has been validated as a versatile tool for the targeted delivery of drugs to the tumor microenvironment. These promising results pave the way for future developments in nanomedicine and offer new hope in the search for more effective and less invasive treatments for cancer patients.

The research has been performed with the collaborative participation of two units of the ICTS “NANBIOSIS”, more specifically the units U1 of Protein Production Platform, PPP and U18, Nanotoxicology Unit, and is framed in the context of the intramural collaboration of the CIBER-BBN “FIBOLISM”, coordinated by Dr Lorena Alba Castellon.

Referenced article

Eric Voltà-Durán•, Lorena Alba-Castellón• , Naroa Serna, Isolda Casanova, Hèctor López-Laguna, Alberto Gallardo, Alejandro Sánchez-Chardi, Antonio Villaverde, Ugutz Unzueta, Esther Vázquez, Ramón Mangues*. High-precision targeting and destruction of cancer-associated PDGFR-β+ stromal fibroblasts through self-assembling, protein-only nanoparticles. Acta Biomaterialia 170 543-555 (2023) https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actbio.2023.09.001

• Equal contribution

*Corresponding authors

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NANBIOSIS U1 PPP invited to PEGS, the Protein & Antibody Engineering Summit

*Image explained by Merce Márquez Martínez, Coordinator of NANBIOSIS U1

The NBT group and Unit 1 of NANBIOSIS (Protein Production Platform, PPP), from CIBER-BBN and IBB-UAB, participated in the 15^th PEGS Europe conference held in Lisbon from November 14^th to 16^th. PEGS, or the Protein & Antibody Engineering Summit, is a prestigious conference, organized by the Cambridge Healthtech Institute (CHI), focusing on protein engineering and its applications in drug discovery, development, and delivery. This conference serves as a valuable platform for knowledge exchange among researchers, scientists, industry experts, and professionals in the field of protein science.

From left to right, Julieta María Sanchez, Merce Márquez, José Luis Corchero and Eloi Parlade

The conference typically includes workshops, seminars, keynote presentations, panel discussions, poster sessions, and exhibitions. These elements allow participants to delve into various aspects of protein engineering, covering topics such as novel technologies, therapeutic targets, biologics development, and innovative strategies for protein design and optimization. PEGS fosters networking, collaboration, and learning in the dynamic field of protein engineering.

The meeting featured parallel sessions covering various thematic areas like engineering, targets, bispecifics, immunotherapy, analytical methods, expression, machine learning, and training seminars. Notably, this year’s focus was on the application of antibodies as treatment platforms, particularly in oncology. Artificial intelligence topic, however, had a significant presence at the conference as a tool for the prediction of protein structures, understanding their functions, and accelerating drug discovery processes. Algorithms were discussed for analyzing extensive biological data to model protein behavior, predict protein folding patterns, identify potential drug targets, and design novel proteins with specific functions. Additionally, tools aiding in protein engineering, optimizing production methods, and facilitating the development of personalized medicine by analyzing individual variations in protein interactions were highlighted.

The NBT group, and PPP from NANBIOSIS, was the only Spanish research group invited to have an active participation in the meeting. Specifically, the group contributed invited oral presentations in the tracks of “cell line and systems engineering”, “Optimizing expression platforms” and “Protein process development”. These oral presentations, along with a poster, focused on presenting the latest results of the group in the field of microparticles as protein-only based platforms for drug delivery and optimizing the production of recombinant proteins in mammalian cells.

In addition, the Technical Coordinator of the NANBIOSIS’s Unit 1 (PPP) was invited as a chairperson to moderate and lead the session titled: “Overcoming expression and production challenges for unique proteins”.

In this setting, connections were established with researchers who share an interest in our work, and there is an anticipation of forging new collaborations.

The upcoming PEGS conference scheduled for 2024 will be held in Barcelona, and the group looks forward to showcasing their latest findings once more.

*Image: Representation by AI of Artificial Microparticles: Robot generating microparticles with embedded DNA fragments. These particles on micro scale are mainly composed by proteins that self-assemble into these larger structures when cations are added. These particles are able to slowly disintegrate into the constitutive proteins, functioning as an effective platform for drug delivery in several medical applications. Specifically designed as carriers, they provide a sustained and continuous release of protein-based drugs over several days, ensuring controlled and gradual administration for therapeutic purposes.

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Impactful research with NANBIOSIS participation in the Poster Tour of CIBER-BBN & CIBEREHD Annual Conference.

2023 CIBER-BBN Annual meeting has taken place at Santemar Hotel, in Santander during November 6-7. This year the format of our annual conferences has been changed towards a collective event scheme between the CIBER-BBN and CIBEREHD thematic areas.

On Monday 6 the scientific sessions werecommon for EHD and BBN, with appealing contents for the mixed audience.

On Tuesday 7 EHD and BBN sessions will specific for each area in separate rooms (with common coffee break).

Posters of both areas were on display in the exhibit hall throughout the entirety of the Annual Meeting.

Moreover, at the “Posters & beers” session (Monday 6th: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.) poster tours were organized where attendees could cast their vote for the best poster and use this one-on-one time with presenters to learn more, ask juicy questions and discuss their work. At 8:00 p.m., the awards ceremony took place for the best oral communication and best poster by young authors – for each area.

It was an impactful information sessions on research carried out by the groups of CIBER-BBN and CIBEREHD thematic areas.

The poster session is always a popular feature at CIBER-BBN Annual Meeting for acknowledgment NANBIOSIS units’ participation in the research carried out during the year. These are the works presented in 2023:

Targeted nanotoxin for the selective depletion of CXCR4+ cancer cells and immune cell recruitment in a colorectal cancer mouse model. Luis Miguel Carrasco-Díaz, Naroa Serna, Eric Voltà-Durán, Ugutz Unzueta, Esther Vázquez, Antonio Villaverde, Patricia Álamo, Lorena Alba-Castellón, Ramón Mangues. With participation of NANBIOSIS Units U1 Protein Production Platform (PPP) and U18 Nanotoxicology Unit . (Contact:
luismiguelcarrascodiaz@gmail.com)

Improvement of the biodistribution of GLA enzyme by RGD-functionalized nanoGLA in a Fabry mouse model.
Zamira Vanessa Diaz Riascos, Marc Moltó Abad, Daniel Marijuan, Belen García Prats, Judit Tomsen Melero, Elisabet González Mira, Jose Luis Corchero, Andreu Soldevila, Miriam Royo, Alba Córdoba, Nora Ventosa, Guillem Pintos Morell, Simo Schwartz , Ibane Abasolo. With participation of the NANBIOSIS units U20 FVPR-In Vivo Experimental Platform, U3 Synthesis of Peptides Unit and U6 Biomaterial Processing and Nanostructuring Unit. (Contact:
vanessa.diaz@vhir.org)

An auristatin-based nanoconjugate induces apoptosis and inhibits the bone marrow leukemia burden in an acute myeloid leukemia mouse model. Annabel Garcia-León, Julián I. Mendoza, Ariana Rueda, Luis Carlos Navas, Vanessa Huaca, Ugutz Unzueta, Jorge Sierra, Esther Vázquez, Antonio Villaverde, Ramon Mangues, Isolda Casanova. With participation of NANBIOSIS Units U1 Protein Production Platform (PPP) and U18 Nanotoxicology Unit. (Contact: agarciale@santpau.cat)

FVPR/U20-NANBIOSIS Service Platform: from the Synthesis and Characterization of Nanotechnology-based Therapies, to the in vitro and in vivo Preclinical Validation. Diana Rafael, Zamira V. Diaz Riascos, Belén García, Alejandra Palacios, Sandra Mancilla, Laura Garcia, Ibane Abasolo. Description of NANBIOSIS Unit 20 FVPR-In Vivo Experimental Platform. (Contact: diana.fernandes_de_so@vhir.org)

Non-Viral Vector Development for Gene Therapy in the Treatment of Congenital Liver Metabolic Diseases Lucía Enríquez Rodríguez, Isabel Carbonell Simón, Idoia Gallego Garrido, Virginia Nieto Romero, Iván Maldonado Pérez, Aida Garcia Torralba, Gustavo Puras Ochoa, Miruna Giurgiu, Jose Carlos Segovia Sanz, María García Bravo, Oscar Quintana Bustamante, José Luis Pedraz Muñoz. With participation of NANBIOSIS U10 Drug Formulation unit. (Contact: lucia.enriquez@ehu.eus)

X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) Analysis of Nitrogen Environment in Small Extracellular Vesicle Membranes: A Potential Novel Technique with Application for Cancer Screening.
Ana Martín-Pardillos, María Sancho-Albero , Silvia Irusta , Víctor Sebastián , Vicente Luis Cebolla , Roberto Pazo-Cid , Pilar Martín-Duque , Jesús Santamaría. With participation of NANBIOSIS U9 Synthesis of Nanoparticles Unit. (Contact: a.martin_pardillos@unizar.es)

Nanoparticle-based approach for blood-brain-barrier crossing and glioblastoma treatment. Júlia German-Cortés, Raquel Herrero, Diana Rafael, Ibane Abasolo, Fernanda Andrade. With participation of NANBIOSIS Unit 20 FVPR-In Vivo Experimental Platform. (Contact: fernanda.silva@vhir.org)

Exploiting mammalian cells for recombinant protein production: an improved protocol for transient gene expression. Aida Carreño Fibla, Roger Fernández Palomeras, José Luis Barra, Rosa Mendoza Moreno, Mercedes Márquez Martínez, Neus Ferrer-Miralles, Antonio Villaverde Corrales, José Luis Corchero Nieto. With participation of NANBIOSIS Units U1 Protein Production Platform (PPP). (Contact:jlcorchero@ciber-bbn.es)

Surface characterization of a PLA/Qr/Mg biocomposite after in vitro degradation in m-SBF. Juan Manuel Casares-López, Margarita Hierro-Oliva, Verónica Luque-Agudo, Amparo M. Gallardo-Moreno, María Luisa González-Martín. With participation of Unit 16 Surface Characterization and Calorimetry Unit (Contact: mlglez@unex.es)

The poster session was an effective forum for the exchange of information and a means to communicate ideas

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NANBIOSIS’s Protein Production Platform showcased innovations in protein engineering at PEGS Europe 2024, featuring talks, posters, and session moderation.

PEGS Europe, a prestigous conference

The participation of our Protein Production Platform

What is NANBIOSIS?

Leading scientists

Custom solutions

Cutting-Edge facilities

Standards of quality

The PPP advances antimicrobial peptide research, forging partnerships to combat antibiotic resistance and prevent medical device-related infections.

Protein Production Platform at the UAB Innovation Fair

What is NANBIOSIS?

Leading scientists

Custom solutions

Cutting-Edge facilities

Standards of quality

Download full guide in PDF (free of charge)

What is NANBIOSIS?

Leading scientists

Custom solutions

Cutting-Edge facilities

Standards of quality

What is NANBIOSIS?

Leading scientists

Custom solutions

Cutting-Edge facilities

Standards of quality

Breakthrough colorectal cancer treatment unveiled by NANBIOSIS Units promises enhanced precision & efficacy in targeted cancer therapies.

The publication:

References:

About NANBIOSIS:

This novel immunization platform, recently published in ACS, triggers potent antivirus response, promising efficient and cost-effective vaccination.

The ACS publication:

References:

About NANBIOSIS: