Invest in Finland

Finland wins major pharmaceutical research contract

01/09/2009

In the research, VTT will utilize its newly developed 3D cancer cell culturing model that enables the study of the cells in an environment that better resembles the conditions in the human body as compared to the conventional 2D cell culture models. The model also allows for improved analyses on the invasive and metastatic behaviour of cancer cells. Through this methodology, VTT scientists can better predict the drug’s efficacy and investigate the molecular mechanisms of action of small compounds.

“Over the past five years, we have invested heavily in R&D and we have become leading specialists in the field of molecular cancer research. Our work and technologies have greatly benefited clients and this has now translated into major new business assignments,” says the project leader Dr. Marko Kallio, VTT’s Senior Research Scientist. The new contract furthers the collaboration between VTT and Bayer Schering Pharma AG and acknowledges the respected position VTT has gained within the pharmaceutical industry.

Over 100 people work on different commercial and academic projects at VTT’s Medical Biotechnology knowledge centre located in Turku. The centre develops and applies new sophisticated research technologies for drug development and diagnostic purposes. The focus of the unit is on identifying primary driver genes and the targets of genetic alterations in cancer. The unit also works to find small molecule inhibitors that prevent the growth and metastasis of various types of cancer. In addition, it develops and utilises versatile recombinant antibody methods and plant biotechnology tools for the needs of pharmaceutical and food industries.

Source: VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland