Founding member of the Zuse community and the FTVT
Research
Our focus is on the development of new diagnostic detection methods for human and animal health.
We link our competences in the fields of cell biology, in vitro diagnostics, biotechnology and optical analytics internally with applications of our veterinary clinic, externally with needs of large and small companies. Our food testing laboratory also creates the interface for healthy food.
As a business-oriented research institution in the Zuse community, we are the link between science and industry. Our application-oriented research and development of processes and products thus enables rapid implementation in the market.
Cell Biology Department
innovative cell culture techniques for new biomolecules
For the development, production, modification and application of new, complex biomolecules, we combine 20 years of expertise with new research approaches and processes. Our team has a high level of expertise and a broad spectrum of new, cell biological methods. We bring this know-how to bear in the various projects with our partners from science and industry.
The current areas of work include
the animal-free production of human antibodies (artificial human immune sera) by means of in vitro immunization of blood cells in cell culture
the production of horse-specific recombinant antibodies
the biomarker screening for veterinary tumor diagnostics
the production of virus-like particles (VLP)
the application development for microscopic analysis methods
Biotechnology Division
Microarray development & production
The focus is on the development, validation and production of single and multiparameter assays for all applications in diagnostics and life sciences.
Equipped with state-of-the-art microarray spotters and microdispensers, our department specializes in the development and production of microarray-based assays.
We support customers worldwide with an exclusive microarray printing service starting from array design to data analysis.
From feasibility study to optimization, verification and validation to pilot production, we offer all phases of development.
After successful project implementation, we are available as a partner for ISO-certified contract manufacturing.
Department Bioinstruments/ Device Development
optical analytics meets artificial intelligence
Contactless optical analysis methods have a wide range of applications in the field of process and laboratory analysis.
Using artificial intelligence methods, we develop customized hardware and software solutions for innovative hyperspectral imaging techniques, UV, VIS, NIR and IR spectroscopy, and gas analysis using ion mobility spectroscopy.
We also develop applications for microscopic analysis and applications using time-gated fluorescence detection.
For spectroscopic and chemometric services, our excellently equipped laboratory and the know-how of our experts are at your disposal.
In vitro diagnostics department
from antigen to point-of-care test / ELISA
Our department specializes in the development of immunological tests for veterinary and human medical applications. The focus is on assay developments for use in the diagnostic laboratory (ELISA) as well as on tests for on-site analysis, such as point-of-care tests (lateral flow assay).
We develop and validate complete test systems, including individual diagnostic components such as monoclonal antibodies and recombinant proteins. Novel detection markers such as fluorescent nanoparticles are also used in this process.
Veterinary clinic
new therapies and diagnostics for large and small animals
For 25 years, scientists at the Veterinary Clinic have been involved in application developments in orthopedics and internal medicine.
Current focus in orthopedics is the development of autologous implants as replacements for articular cartilage and ligaments as well as instruments and implants for fracture treatment by means of osteosynthesis.
The internal medicine topics focus on the development of multiplex assays for molecular allergy diagnostics for horses as well as the improvement of tumor diagnostics in dogs using new biomarkers from liquid biopsy and their combination with findings from imaging procedures. Artificial intelligence algorithms are used for this purpose.
We have been an independent laboratory service provider for food safety and consumer protection since 1994.
Our customers include large and medium-sized companies in the food industry as well as numerous craft businesses.
In addition to our extensive service portfolio, we offer individual support and consulting.
The laboratory is accredited by the German Accreditation Body (DAkkS) according to DIN EN 17025 and certified according to DIN EN ISO 9001.
current investments in research
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for a rapid response to the emergence of new, pathogenic agents and/or pathogen variants.
We want to meet this challenge. To enable us to identify and characterize new pathogens more quickly, we are establishing a Next Generation Sequencing platform at the fzmb. Using this high-throughput method, we can visualize even the smallest genetic changes (such as mutations) in a very short time. On this basis, we can subsequently want to develop improved/adapted diagnostics such as rapid tests.
The project, which is supported by the Free State of Thuringia, is co-financed by funds from the European Union within the framework of the REACT-EU Fund.
