TOPGUN
PEPTIDOMIMETIC THERANOSTIC DEVELOPMENT AND GMP PRODUCTION PLATFORM
The TOPGUN Program, a platform for peptidomimetic theranostic development and GMP production, presents a two-fold opportunity: (1) the development of a platform for the systematic downsizing of nanobodies into peptides that can maintain or improve the functional activity and, where possible, eliminate or reduce their limitations; (2) centralized GMP production facility for radiopharmaceuticals, the ‘Brussels Imaging Pharmacy’ (BIP). This latter opportunity also includes a cyclotron and a quality control lab. BIP is also a center of expertise in clinical trials and regulatory processes.
EXPERTISE
We aim to use and valorize the facilities at the BIP to be used by third-party research groups and/or companies in Flanders and beyond for radiopharmacy that would not be possible in their own facilities. The BIP offers a number of advantages to these third-party users. Firstly, the centralized production site, in the heart of Belgium just outside Brussels, is close to patient centers for clinical trials and other radiomedicinal procedures. Secondly, there are technical advantages held in the cutting-edge equipment in place at the BIP facilities. Finally, there are significant administrative advantages such as the center of regulatory knowledge required for clinical trials and expertise in the development of new technical processes (e.g., with the cyclotron). We also possess significant expertise in the development of therapeutic peptides against various physiological targets including those for use in biomedical imaging applications and those derived from specific Nanobody-derived sequences.
CONTACT
Prof. Vicky Caveliers
Operational Manager of the Brussels Imaging Pharmacy (BIP)
Head of Radiopharmacy UZBrussel vicky.caveliers@vub.be
SERVICES OFFERED
• GMP-certified production of radiopharmaceuticals.
• High-capacity production (up to 20 Ci/700 GBq of 18F).
• On-site cyclotron and 6 hotcels.
• Regulatory know-how/IMPD input and services.
• Other services e.g., quality control equipment / analysis and technical development.
• Synthesis and development of peptides for use in diagnosis and/ or therapy.
WHY CALL UPON US
• Quality and high-production infrastructure.
• Brings together know-how from four medical and academic centers.
• Optimises production capacity by sharing costs of investments and personnel.
• Allows contracts with the pharma industry with continuing expansion.
• Possibilities for contract research and (academic) clinical trials.