The development of new drugs is a time- and cost-intensive process. In many cases there is a gap in the transfer of fundamental research results to clinical practice. The Fraunhofer IZI bridges this gap by means of its special know-how in the field of preclinical development. Our range of services already starts with development services and extends over characterization, optimization and preclinical studies right down to clinical trials. Particular priorities are the development of drugs in the fields of oncology, infection biology, autoimmune and inflammatory diseases as well as ischemia.

Cell therapy is the application of cells or cell suspensions. It is the aim of a cell therapy to induce regenerative processes and to replace dysfunctional or defective cells in the patient, respectively. In order to clinically apply cell therapeutics it is required to demonstrate their safety and effectiveness, which is done in extensive preclinical examinations and clinical trials. The Fraunhofer IZI conducts contract development and testing of cell therapeutic methods. The institute offers all developmental steps from one source, from the design of studies over preclinical development right down to the grant of a manufacturing authorization and the production of test preparations for clinical trials.

In order to promote the development of innovative therapy strategies innovative diagnostic methods are required. From the characterization of individual cells to the imaging in living organisms, methods and processes must continuously be adapted and adjusted. The Fraunhofer IZI develops, tests and validates new and adapted diagnostic methods and accompanies its partners until a product has reached market maturity. With innovative methods and new classes of biomarkers (e.g. ncRNA) the institute seeks to develop more sensitive, rapid and cost-effective methods and to transfer them to clinical application.

Biobanks are collections of biological material that are stored and optionally preserved in a special manner while providing additional information, e.g. about their origin. Biobanks are established for research and other purposes, e.g. as supply for diagnostic or therapeutic methods or, in the field of biology, for the conservation of biodiversity. As far as human materials are concerned, the donators‘ consent and specific handling regulations are required. At the Fraunhofer IZI there are biobanks for various inflammatory and tumor tissues as well as for various types of stem cells, also including tumor stem cells, that serve for the processing of research contracts. The units at the Fraunhofer IZI also develop individual components themselves, like for example new cryoprotectors, and are very experienced in conceiving, establishing, documenting and operating biobanks, which are readily utilized within the scope of contracts.