Animal cell technology is an important branch of modern biotechnology with a crucial role in the production of complex biopharmaceuticals and in the development of cell based tools for several phases of drug discovery.
The Animal Cell Technology Unit (ACTU) of iBET/ITQB-UNL is a top research group combining knowledge and competences of scientists from a wide range of disciplines (Biochemistry, Biology and Engineering). Our know-how in terms of biopharmaceuticals spans from the initial expression vector design and cell line establishment through all stages of process development and scale-up (production, purification, stability and storage). Additionally, the recognized potential of cell- and gene-based therapies led us to develop expertise in both areas. In recent years, the ACTU has been dedicating substantial effort in the development of new in vitro models for pre-clinical research.
The ACTU participates in several national and international projects under the 6th and 7th Framework European Commission Programs and is a member of CLINIGENE, an international Network of Excellence in Gene and Cell therapy. Additionally, the ACTU collaborates with several pharmaceutical companies, biotech SMEs and academic institutions.