Animal Cell Technology Unit
The Animal Cell Technology (ACT) Unit of iBET/ITQB NOVA, coordinated by Paula M. Alves, is a top research group combining the knowledge and competences required to develop biopharmaceuticals for novel therapies, as well as in vitro tools for pre-clinical screening of efficacy and safety.
Composed by a diverse group of scientists, engineers, and technicians, the ACT Unit covers the entire animal cell production process, from the initial genetic studies and cell line development, to the stages of process development and validation (production, purification, stability, and storage), and regulatory issues.
The ACT Unit is presently composed of four laboratories, excelling in key research areas such as recombinant proteins (including monoclonal antibodies), vaccines (including virus-like particles), viral vectors for gene therapy, and cell therapy:
- Cell Bioprocesses Laboratory, headed by Paula Alves.
- Engineering Cellular Applications Laboratory, headed by Manuel Carrondo.
- Cell Line Development and Molecular Biotechnology Laboratory, headed by Ana Sofia Coroadinha.
- Advanced Cell Models Laboratory, headed by Catarina Brito.
The unit has been involved in several national and international projects under the 6th, 7th, and H2020 Framework European Commission Programs, and was a member of CLINIGENE, an international Network of Excellence in Gene and Cell therapy. The group has also research projects with several Pharmaceutical Multinational Companies and Biotech SMEs.
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