How can we better predict which form of a protein is active during a disease? This is the central question of the new research project NextBio, led by bioanalytical chemist Anouk Rijs of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. The project has received funding for this work from the Dutch Research Council (NWO).
Proteins play an important role in the human body and also form the basis of many modern medicines. However, a single protein can exist in different forms. These so-called proteoforms can differ from one another in structure and function. It is precisely these differences that can determine the onset or progression of a disease, as well as the effectiveness of a drug.
Through NextBio, researchers are developing new, advanced analytical methods to accurately characterize these different protein forms. Their goal is to better understand which proteoforms are involved in disease mechanisms. This knowledge can then be used to develop new biotherapeutic drugs in a more targeted manner.
From Protein Research to Treatment
The research focuses, among other things, on blood clotting disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. By better identifying which protein forms play a role in these conditions, the researchers hope to find new avenues for treatments.
The researchers expect that a better understanding of protein variation will ultimately contribute to the development of more effective and targeted biotherapeutics. In the long term, this research could become relevant for patients with conditions for which suitable treatments are not yet available for all disease processes.
From Scientific Discovery to Practical Innovation
NextBio is part of the NWO-KIC call “Biochemical Diversity.” The NWO’s Knowledge and Innovation Covenant (KIC) focuses on research that contributes to solutions for societal challenges. By bringing together research institutions, companies, and other organizations, NWO aims to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and practical innovation.
The project brings together scientists from various disciplines, including protein drug production, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, and therapy development. Anouk Rijs, Professor of Analytics of Biomolecular Interactions, leads the consortium and coordinates the interdisciplinary research.
Researchers from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, including Govert Somsen, Professor of Biomolecular Analysis, are collaborating with Mettine Bos of Leiden University Medical Center. Various companies and technology partners are also involved in the project, including VarmX, VectorY, Thermo Fisher, CMP Scientific, Tosoh, and MSVision.
The collaboration aims to ensure that new scientific knowledge can be translated more quickly into applications in the development and production of medicines.