Do you have an idea for a nanotech startup but are not quite sure how to make it happen? Are you missing the final puzzle piece to open up your SME for new technologies?
The NanoPrecMed consortium is offering advice and insights to anyone seeking to broaden their horizon towards the nanoscale. Examples for our expertise are:
Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)
See the surface, molecule by molecule.
AFM lets you visualize and measure surfaces at the nanoscale, from soft biomaterials to individual DNA strands. Unlike traditional microscopy, it works by “feeling” the surface with an ultra-fine probe, offering 3D topography down to atomic resolution even in liquids. At NanoPrecMed, we use classic AFM as well as special setups like high-speed AFM or and AFM + fluorescence microscopy combo to analyze surface structures, detect conformational changes, and observe molecular dynamics in real time. This is ideal for characterizing nanocarriers, coatings, or biologically relevant interactions that influence product behavior.
Use cases: vesicle and nanoparticle characterization, biomaterial testing
Strengths: non-destructive, works in physiological conditions, real-time imaging possible
Our experts: Jaroslaw Jacak, Peter Hinterdorfer
Bioinformatics Tools for DNA/RNA Analysis
Unraveling the Secrets of Genomic Sequences
What patterns are hidden in your DNA sequence? Our researchers specialize in creating user-friendly bioinformatics tools that make it easy to analyze genetic material.
Applications like the DNA Analyser, provides detailed visualizations and statistics for local sequence features like inverted repeats using the Palindrome Analyser module. Another tool, the G4 Hunter help identify G-quadruplexes: stable secondary DNA or RNA structures that can influence gene regulation, stability, and replication. The platform provides heatmaps, localization, and propensity scores, no coding required.
Whether you’re validating a target, optimizing a therapeutic sequence, or exploring genome architecture, our tools can help interpret and extend your analysis.
Use cases: drug design, synthetic biology, biomarker discovery
Strengths: user-friendly interface, batch processing, exportable results.
Our expert: Vaclav Brazda
Extracellular Vesicles Characterization, Production and Use Cases
Nature’s own nanoparticles, now tools for therapy.
Extracellular vesicles are tiny, naturally secreted particles that carry bioactive cargo like RNA and proteins between cells. But they’re also a promising platform for diagnostics and targeted drug delivery. At NanoPrecMed, we isolate and analyze EVs using advanced techniques (e.g. tracking analysis, flow cytometry, AFM) and develop modified EVs for specific targeting applications. Whether you’re developing cancer diagnostics, novel therapeutics, or need help setting up your EV pipeline, our team has the expertise to support you.
Use cases: cancer biomarkers, regenerative medicine, RNA delivery, EV standardization.
Strengths: biocompatibility, cell-specific signaling, natural origin.
Our experts: Johannes Oesterreicher, Johannes Grillari
Nanobioparticles Design and Application
Tailor-made transporters for precision medicine.
Need your therapeutic or diagnostic agent to go exactly where it’s needed? We can tell you how to design nanobioparticles (NBPs) that do just that. These synthetic or semi-synthetic particles can be engineered for smart delivery, specific cell targeting, or controlled release. They can be programmed to respond to specific signals, such as a change in pH, to shed layers or activate.
From cancer therapy to RNA delivery, nanoparticles are already reshaping the way we approach personalized medicine. And we’re here to help you explore how these smart particles can support your next breakthrough.
Use cases: vaccines, nucleic acid therapeutics, theranostics, antimicrobial strategies.
Strengths: modular design, high payload capacity, tunable properties.
Our expert: Andrew Miller
Vaccine Research in Arbovirology
Innovative Models for Vector-Borne Viruses
Viruses like tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) or Zika are spread by insects and ticks. Preparing for them requires the right models. Our researchers develop vaccine prototypes and test platforms for these so-called arboviruses using advanced molecular biology, cell culture and preclinical models.
We can assess novel vaccine candidates in early-stage models, evaluate immune responses, and test innovative delivery systems such as RNA-loaded nanoparticles to improve stability and efficacy.
Use Cases: Vaccine design and testing, infection models, pathogenesis research
Key Strengths: adaptable platforms like blood-brain-barrier models, biosafety-level 3 facilities, complete pipeline from molecular biology to clinical samples testing
Our experts: Martin Palus, Vaclav Hönig
Zero to Market: Navigating Translation
Turning a breakthrough idea into a real-world solution is one of the greatest challenges in medical innovation. At NanoPrecMed, we understand that discovery is just the beginning. Our expertise in translation bridges the critical gap between the lab bench and the market.
Whether it’s navigating the complex pathways of patent application, regulatory authorities or founding your own company, we know where the common pitfalls lie and how to avoid them, especially when it comes to protecting innovations early without jeopardizing future development or investment.
Got a promising idea, but not sure how to get it out into the world? Talk to us!
Our experts: Andrew Miller, Johannes Grillari