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Revolution in the laboratory: Start-up develops animal-free tests for medicines!
Start-up InnoZell from the University of Konstanz develops animal-free test systems to detect microbial contaminants in medications.
Revolution in the laboratory: Start-up develops animal-free tests for medicines!
In today's world, when the development of medications and medical devices must meet the highest requirements, quality assurance is the focus of innovative developments. A promising startup from the University of Konstanz, InnoZell, has specialized in developing cell-based test systems that reliably detect microbiological contaminants in drugs and medical devices.
The procedure, which was led by Prof. Dr. Christof Hauck, a professor of cell biology, has the potential to revolutionize traditional testing methods, which previously often required animal testing. The InnoZell team, consisting of Dr. Clovis Hugues Seumen Tiogang, Dr. Ann-Kathrin Mix, Erik Sontowski and entrepreneur Joachim Plesch, rely on human immune cells as detectors. This new method promises not only greater sensitivity and speed, but also animal-free quality control of biopharmaceutical products.
Promotion and support for innovative research approaches
InnoZell receives funding of over 800,000 euros as part of the exist research transfer program, which was initiated by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE). This program is considered one of the central funding for research-based start-up projects in Germany and supports projects that have a high technical development risk in the transition phase from research to commercial implementation.
The support for InnoZell comes not only from the BMWE, but also from the European Social Fund (ESF). The Knowledge and Technology Transfer (KTT) team at the University of Konstanz has been supporting the company in its development since 2022. InnoZell also receives help from forum.konstanz and Entrepreneurs for Founders (UfG e.V.).
InnoZell has already achieved particular successes, including being awarded the exist research transfer from the BMWE and the Science Innovation Award from Kilometer1 in 2023. In the first funding phase of the exist program, efforts focused on scientific development, while the second phase focuses on preparation for the start-up.
The context of health and environmental safety
Given the growing concern about the safety of pharmaceuticals and their residues released into the environment, InnoZell's work is of great importance. Not only do pharmaceuticals have an impact on human and animal health, but their residues also pose a threat to ecosystems Fraunhofer IGB As shown, the uncritical use of medications can lead to harmful residues in surface and groundwater as well as in soil. These substances enter the food chain through drinking water and agricultural products.
There is an urgent need for efficient methods that can quickly identify the danger potential of pollutants. InnoZell is not only a beacon of hope in drug safety, but also contributes to minimizing harmful health effects on the environment and society.
InnoZell's innovative strength and entrepreneurial approach could pave the way for a cruelty-free future in the field of drug and product development. This development could be crucial not only for the industry, but also for protecting our environment.