Biological radiopharmaceuticals
Clinical translation of
bio-theranostics
The major research spearpoint at the In vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging (ICMI) lab is the development of new GMP-grade optical and nuclear diagnostic imaging probes and therapeutics.
Nuclear and optical imaging of small animals
A myriad of state-of-the art multi-modality cameras and ex vivo analysis techniques allow you to study tracer biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, dosimetry, and therapeutic efficacy of (radio)pharmaceuticals.
Lean on our expertise in developing imaging protocols, contrast agents, tracers, and image processing to ensure that your research yields reliable and accurate results, ready for clinical translation.
Preclinical Validation
Molecular imaging holds immense scientific advantages in preclinical research, revolutionizing the understanding of biological processes at the molecular level.
By employing various imaging techniques, such as positron emission tomography (PET), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and optical imaging, researchers can non-invasively visualise and monitor the molecular interactions, cellular processes, and disease progression within living organisms. This enables a comprehensive assessment of drug pharmacokinetics, therapeutic efficacy, and the evaluation of novel biomarkers. Moreover, the ability to track molecular events longitudinally and dynamically enhances the accuracy and efficiency of preclinical studies, accelerating the development of new treatments and personalised medicine approaches.
Clinical translation
To aid in clinical implementation of Nanobody-based theranostics, the ICMI lab has implemented the Vector Development Unit for the GMP-grade protein production.
R&D
Development of recombinant protein production process
Preclinical in vitro and in vivo studies
QA
Quality Management System (QMS)
USP
Fermentation of recombinant proteins using 30 L Single Use Fermentor in E. coli or P. pastoris at gram-scale
DSP
Purification using advanced HPLC and TFF
Conjugation with dyes and chelators
QA/QC
release
In Process Controls (IPC)
Release and characterisation tests
SDS, WB, analytical SEC, SPR, ELISA, spectrophotometry, endotoxins
Support at every stage
In order to fast-track clinical implementation, ICMI has a strong partnership with the Brussels Imaging Pharmacy, a GMP-compliant radiopharmacy, and the UZ Brussel Nuclear Medicine Dept. for large animal imaging studies (up to mini pigs) and patient clinical trials.
Supportive infrastructure
Radiochemistry Unit
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Dedicated labs for alpha-, beta- and gamma-emitters with access to several hot cells
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Access to in-house clinically-relevant isotopes (68Ga, 18F, 99mTc)
and commercially available isotopes (131I, 177Lu, 225Ac, 111In)
BSL2 Animal facility
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Housing for small rodents and large mammals, such as minipigs
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Wide range of disease models
The experts
The in vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging (ICMI) is part of the VUB Health Campus and is specialized in nuclear and optical imaging of small animals. The lab is equipped with a myriad of state-of-the art multi-modality cameras and ex vivo analysis techniques to study tracer biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, dosimetry, and therapeutic efficacy of (radio)pharmaceuticals.
