What if you could design something that acts like an antibody, but cheaper, more stable, and made entirely with chemistry?
Two LACDR researchers, Sebastian Pomplun and Matthias Barz, teamed up to do just that. By merging peptide synthesis with polymer chemistry, they developed synthetic molecules that mimic the size, shape, and function of antibodies, without the cold storage, high production costs, or immune side effects.
These ‘bottlebrush-like’ nanoscale particles are tough, modular, and ready for next-gen therapies. The concept worked from the very first experiment. The potential? Faster drug development, better patient access, and new pathways for targeting disease.
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The Court of Audit visited LBSP to explore how science and entrepreneurship create public value, with stops at TNO, Peregrion, NTrans, and VarmX sparking discussion on biotech innovation.
Leiden University is studying emotions at Lowlands Festival through two projects: a haunted house that measures how people cope with fear, and a silent performance exploring nonverbal communication.
LUMC and Stichting DON have launched Cure One, a new research center focused on accelerating curative therapies for type 1 diabetes through stem cell technology and immune-based treatments.