Nanobodies, our legacy
In 1989, Professor Raymond Hamers' laboratory at VUB discovered a new type of antibody in the blood of a dromedary. This led to the development of single-domain antibodies known as VHHs or Nanobodies® by former VIB researcher Serge Muyldermans. These tiny antibody fragments have resulted in the establishment of five VIB spin-off companies, including Ablynx, Biotalys, Confo Therapeutics, ExeVir Bio, and Animab. These companies are exploring the potential of VHHs as therapeutics for human and livestock diseases, crop protection, and drug discovery. Ongoing research at VIB continues to contribute to technological innovations in the VHH field.