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Inhalable biologics - Project

This GCP project will develop a radically different approach to control influenza. The main aim is to create biologicals with broad-neutralizing capacity that target conserved regions of the virus. These biologicals can be administered through a nebulizer to treat and/or prevent current influenza strains, but should also be useful against future pandemic strains. Additionally, the study also looks into the cost-effectiveness of the proposed biological-based solution, focusing on prophylactic treatment in the elderly. 

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A nanobody-based solution for influenza

A nanobody-based solution for influenza

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Even though vaccines are useful for the prevention of influenza infections, there is an unmet need to treat infected patients or to prevent infections in patients with a weaker immune system. A nebulized nanobody-based solution can offer protection and can be used as a treatment option. 

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Nanobodies are generated by immunizing llamas

Nanobodies are generated by immunizing llamas

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Parts of the influenza virus are purified and injected into llamas in order to generated nanobodies. Afterwards, the best nanobodies will be selected and optimized for application in humans. 

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A pan-influenza neutralizing nanobody

A pan-influenza neutralizing nanobody

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The aim is to select a nanobody that can neutralize current influenza strains, but  is also effective against pandemic strains that will pop up in the future. 

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Large-scale production of the nanobody

Large-scale production of the nanobody

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Once a successful nanobody is identified and validated, it will be produced in a large-scale bioreactor. Large quantities of nanobody are needed for testing in lab animals and -in a later phase- in human participants, which is necessary for drug development. 

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lung delivery of the drug

Lung delivery of the drug

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The final goal is to generate an inhalable nanobody solution. By inhalation, the drug is delivered locally to the airways to maximise its effect.