Download Inflammatory and Infectious Diseases

Non-Confidential Information on
Inflammatory and
Infectious Diseases
in BioTurku®
www.turkusciencepark.com
The key competence areas in
®
The
key competence
areas in
are Drug discovery,
BioTurku
®
are
Drug
discovery,
BioTurku
development and release,
development
andBiomarker
release,
Diagnostics and
Diagnostics
and
Biomarker
development.
development.
BioTurku®® Scientific and Business
BioTurku Scientific and Business
Community
Community
BioTurku® is the leading biotechnology cluster in Finland, an active and dynamic
®
BioTurku
leading
in Finland,
and dynamic
community isofthe
bio
actorsbiotechnology
and a centrecluster
of top
expertiseaninactive
Northern
Europe.
community
of
bio
actors
and
a
centre
of
top
expertise
in
Northern
Europe.
Around half of Finland’s pharmaceutical and diagnostics industry is located
in
Around
half
of
Finland’s
pharmaceutical
and
diagnostics
industry
is
located
in
the Turku region in southwest Finland. The BioTurku cluster comprises about 90
the
Turku
region
in
southwest
Finland.
The
BioTurku
cluster
comprises
about
90
biotechnology companies, two universities as well as several educational and
biotechnology
companies,
two universities
as well as
several
educationalchain
and
research institutes
and the Turku
University Hospital.
It forms
a continuous
research
institutes
and
the
Turku
University
Hospital.
It
forms
a
continuous
chain
of education, research, product development, production and commercialisation.
of
education,
research,
production
and and
commercialisation.
BioTurku
is part
of Turkuproduct
Sciencedevelopment,
Park, one of Finland’s
oldest
largest science
BioTurku
is
part
of
Turku
Science
Park,
one
of
Finland’s
oldest
and
largest science
parks.
parks.
The key competence areas in BioTurku are preclinical and clinical drug research
The
competence
areas in BioTurku
are preclinical
clinical
drug research
and key
development,
diagnostics
and biomaterials.
Theand
three
therapeutic
areas,
and
development,
diagnostics
and
biomaterials.
The
three
therapeutic
areas,
within these competence areas, are cancer and hormonal diseases, inflammatory
within
these
competence
areas,
are
cancer
and
hormonal
diseases,
inflammatory
and infectious diseases and diseases of the central nervous system. Close
and
infectious
diseases
and diseases
the central
nervous system.
Close
cooperation
between
academic
researchofgroups
and companies
is an essential
cooperation
between
academic
research
groups
and
companies
is
an
essential
element in the practical implementation of the BioTurku strategy.
element in the practical implementation of the BioTurku strategy.
Further information: www.turkusciencepark.com
Further information: www.turkusciencepark.com
1.
2
RESEARCH INFRASTRUCTURE AND PROGRAMMES AT BIOTURKU® 3
1.1
Research Infrastructure..................................................................... 3
1.2
Research Groups in Inflammation and Infectious Diseases .............. 6
1.2.1
Pathogenesis of Lyme Borreliosis ................................. 6
1.2.2
Gut Immune System in Type 1 Diabetes....................... 6
1.2.3
Cell Trafficking .............................................................. 7
1.2.4
Molecular and Systems Immunology and Stem Cell
Biology.......................................................................... 7
1.2.5
Identifying and Characterizing Target Specific
Probiotics and Prebiotics .............................................. 7
1.2.6
Human Microbiome in Health and Disease ................... 8
1.2.7
Mechanisms, Epidemiology and Prevention of
Antimicrobial Resistance............................................... 8
1.2.8
Pertussis: functional genomics, immunity and
prevention ..................................................................... 8
1.2.9
Respiratory Tract Infections in Children: Etiology,
Epidemiology, Diagnosis, Management, Prevention,
and Total Impact on the Society.................................... 9
1.2.10 Herpes Simplex Virus: Host Responses and Gene
Therapy Applications .................................................... 9
1.2.11 Immunogenetics of Autoimmune Disease ..................... 9
1.2.12 Periodontal Inflammation and Infection ....................... 10
1.2.13 Recurrent Respiratory Infections in Children ............... 10
1.2.14 Optimal Management of Acute Otitis Media ................ 10
1.2.15 Picornavirus Tropism and Pathogenesis ..................... 11
1.2.16 Human Papillomavirus Infections: Molecular
Pathogenesis and Transmission ................................. 11
1.2.17 Controlling Caries and Periodontitis-Associated
Bacteria in Oral Biofilms in Vitro and in Vivo ............... 11
1.2.18 Host Response and Molecular Variation in
Respiratory and Enteric Virus Infections ..................... 12
1.2.19 Molecular Epidemiology of Health Care Associated
Infections and Severe Bacterial Infections .................. 12
1.2.20 Etiology and Immunopathogenesis of Virus Infections
with Special Reference to Exacerbation of Asthma ..... 12
BIOTURKU® COMPANIES AND THE PRODUCT AND PROJECT
PORTFOLIOS ......................................................................................... 13
Abacus Diagnostica Ltd (www.abacusdiagnostica.com) ............ 13
ArcDia Group (www.arcdia.com) ............................................... 13
Bayer Schering Pharma Oy (www.bayer.fi) ............................... 13
Biotie Therapies Corp. (www.biotie.com) .................................. 14
BonAlive Biomaterials Ltd (www.bonalive.com) ......................... 14
DelSiTech Ltd (www.delsitech.com) .......................................... 14
DHR Finland Oy, Innotrac Diagnostics (www.innotrac.fi) ........... 15
Faron Pharmaceuticals Ltd (www.faronpharmaceuticals.com) .. 15
Galilaeus Oy (Ltd) (www.galilaeus.fi)......................................... 15
Jan 2014
2
HyTest Ltd (www.hytest.fi) ........................................................ 15
Labmaster Oy (www.labmaster.fi) ............................................. 16
Montisera Ltd (www.montisera.com) ......................................... 16
Pharmatest Services Oy (www.pharmatest.comi)...................... 16
Perkin Elmer Life and Analytical Sciences / Wallac Oy
(www.perkinelmer.com) ............................................................ 16
Vitabalans Oy (www.vitabalans.fi) ............................................. 17
3
1. RESEARCH INFRASTRUCTURE AND PROGRAMMES AT
BIOTURKU®
The BioTurku cluster builds on a strong scientific basis - the largest single-location
Biocampus in Finland is located in Turku, with internationally recognised academic research
and education.
The two universities, University of Turku (www.utu.fi) and Åbo Akademi University
(www.abo.fi), as well as Finland’s largest polytechnic University of Applied Sciences
(www.turkuamk.fi) form the main educational structure for the biotechnology research.
In addition to the university faculties and polytechnic, biotechnology research is carried out in
a number of research units, institutes and other organisations, e.g.
1.1
Research Infrastructure
Auria Biobank (www.auriabiopankki.fi/en/)
Auria Biobank is the first hospital integrated biobank established in Finland by University of
Turku and the hospital districts of Southwest Finland, Satakunta and Vaasa. After starting by
the end 2013, it serves as an infrastructure for medical research. Auria Biobank currently
holds over 100000 paraffin embedded tissue samples from a range of tumors from various
organs. The tissue of origin and tumor type are recorded by SNOMED nomenclature.
Routine clinical and tissue-based prognostic and predictive markers (e.g. tumor size and
grade, TNM classification, hormone receptor expression etc.) and a basic set of clinical data
are available for selected tumor types and collection periods. The data from hospital and
certain national health registries can be combined and released to researchers in a decoded
fashion to protect the identity of the sample donors. Specimens will be available for research
purposes based on applications and approval of the scientific board as specified on the
Auria Biobank www-pages.
Clinical Research Services Turku (CRST) (www.crst.fi)
CRST is a university-based contract research organization (CRO) that conducts clinical,
preclinical and bioanalytical studies for the pharmaceutical industry and for other customers.
CRST is run by experienced specialists with in-depth understanding of basic and clinical
pharmacology and analytical chemistry, especially in therapeutic areas such as disorders of
the central nervous system, metabolic diseases and cancer. The services cover clinical drug
development from Phase I to Phase IV and bioanalytical and pharmacokinetic services
related to clinical and preclinical trials of new pharmaceuticals. Early-phase clinical trials
employing imaging (PET and other modalities) and other efficacy biomarkers form the core
competence area of CRST.
Functional Foods Forum (http://fff.utu.fi)
Functional Foods Forum (FFF) brings together the multidisciplinary expertise for the
research and development of high-quality and healthy foods of the future. FFF has a longstanding expertise in preclinical dietary intervention studies and in vivo cancer models. In
close collaboration with TCDM Nutrition and Metabolism Unit, FFF offers multidisciplinary
know-how and research services in investigating the role of dietary factors in cancer
development and growth.
4
National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) (www.thl.fi)
The National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) is a research and development institute
under the Finnish Ministry of Social Affairs and Health. THL works to promote the well-being
and health of the population, prevent diseases and social problems, and develop social and
health services. THL is the statutory statistical authority in health and welfare and maintains
a strong knowledge base within its own field of operations.
Turku BioImaging (www.bioimaging.fi)
Turku has genuine traditions in imaging research. The Turku BioImaging initiative represents
state-of-the-art technologies in the bioscience community in Turku and is highly
interdisciplinary, encompassing all areas of imaging, ranging from molecular to cellular, from
single molecule to whole animal imaging, and from single cell analysis of sub-cellular events
to high-throughput screening (HTS). The initiative also includes proteomics, systems biology,
and computational modelling of cellular processes as their own specific modalities of
bioimaging.
Turku Brain and Mind Center (TBMC) (www.tbmc.fi)
The center was created in 2011 and gathers twenty research groups from various fields of
neuroscience in Turku. TBMC groups are from the University of Turku and Åbo Akademi
University. We are pioneers in systemic neuroscience, molecular neuroscience and brain
imaging. TBMC researchers work in multi-disciplinary teams to explore the mechanisms
underlying brain function in health and disease. In addition to scientific research, we provide
high-level specialized education (PhD and postdoctoral level) to young scientists with a keen
interest to excel in the field of neuroscience. Our teams carry out internationally competitive
research and aim to break new horizons in neuroscience. World class academics from the
University of Turku, Åbo Akademi University together with our collaborators will help in
achieving this goal. A key endeavour of TBMC is to facilitate collaboration with commercial
enterprises and pharmaceutical companies, thereby helping to bridge the gap between
academic neuroscience research and drug development.
Turku Center for Disease Modeling (TCDM) (www.tcdm.fi)
TCDM is a research infrastructure at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, providing
state-of-the-art facilities and expertise for experimental in vivo studies. TCDM carries out
both academic and industry associated non-clinical research, and its facilities are also
available for contract research. TCDM Tumor Biology Unit provides expertise in performing
tumor xenocraft studies, including treatment trials with drug candidates, and the Mouse
Genetics and Biology Unit generates genetically modified mice tailored for cancer research.
Turku Centre for Biotechnology (www.btk.fi)
CBT is a joint independent department of the University of Turku and Åbo Akademi
University. The Centre provides technical expertise and coordinating services for academic
and industrial projects in several central areas of biotechnology. The centre also provides a
forum for active interactions between academia and industry. The central areas of research
are cell signalling, regulation of gene and protein expression and systems biology focusing
on neuroscience, oncology, stem cell research and immunology. CBT has strategically
invested in the development of state-of-the-art platforms in areas such as genomics,
functional genomics, proteomics, cell imaging and bioinformatics supporting -omics
technologies. In addition to serving local needs, based on national profiling of infrastructures,
CBT further develops and provides national services in these key areas as well as some
other areas (viral vectors, x-ray crystallography) within national infrastructure networks. As a
part of CBT’s infrastructure, the Central Animal Laboratory serves researchers campuswide, enabling other functions such as disease modelling.
Turku Clinical Biomaterials Centre (TCBC) (www.biomaterials.utu.fi)
TCBC has special expertise in non-metallic biomaterials in medicine and dentistry. The
centre has a core- facility laboratory with a comprehensive range of up-to-date equipment to
5
meet the challenges of research and development of novel biomaterials and implant designs
for clinical applications in head and neck surgery, cranio-maxillofacial surgery and
orthopedics as well as in dentistry. Non-metallic bioactive implants have found to be
beneficial in reconstructive surgery of cancer patients. TCBC offers custom-made bioactive
composite implants for clinical research purposes. Several facilities are dedicated to
particular tasks in the manufacturing, characterization and biomechanical testing of
materials.
Turku Clinical Research Centre (Turku CRC) (www.turkucrc.fi)
Turku Clinical Research Centre consists of units of its background organizations, the
Hospital District of Southwest Finland and the University of Turku. The work of Turku CRC is
aimed at enhancing the prerequisites for investigator initiated clinical research, ensuring a
high quality of research, easing the investigators’ workload of research administration, and
intensifying research collaboration with external partners.
Turku PET Centre (www.pet.fi)
Turku PET Centre is a Finnish National Research Institute for the use of short-lived positron
emitting isotopes in the field of medical research, with focus on high quality scientific
research and diagnostic service for the whole country. The centre has 150 staff members
and is equipped with e.g. 3 cyclotrons, 19 hot cells for GMP level tracer production, 6 PET or
PET/CT scanners, 1.5 T MRI, PET/MRI (3.0T). The centre is ranked among the top 5 in the
world. The scientific research strategy of the centre involves five major topics: Molecular
imaging in cardiovascular and metabolic research, neurotransmission in health and disease,
oncology research, preclinical and translational research and PET radiochemistry research.
Turku University Hospital (www.tyks.fi)
The catchment area of highly specialised medical care in western Finland includes Turku
University Hospital in the Hospital District of South-West Finland, Satakunta Hospital District
and Vaasa Hospital District. The area has some 862 000 inhabitants. In every hospital
district, there is treatment on cancer, as well as cancer research. University Hospital's role is
to coordinate both the medical care and the research and development of new diagnostic
and therapeutic methods with other hospital districts and the PET Centre, University of
Turku, and the biotech companies in the area. The new challenge is to create a unit of
Comprehensive Cancer Centre in Turku as part of the CCC-Fin project, and thereby more
clearly be connected, also nationally, into the therapeutic and research areas of expertise.
Tykslab (www.tykslab.fi)
Tykslab is a clinical laboratory, which belongs to the Hospital District of Southwest Finland. It
serves the Turku University Hospital and other hospitals and general healthcare in
Southwest Finland. The main products of Tykslab are laboratory tests of clinical chemistry,
laboratory hematology and clinical microbiology as well as phlebotomy.
UTULAb (www.utulab.fi)
UTULab is an integrated Turku university clinical diagnostic laboratory, which includes
Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Virology and
Department of Medical Genetics. UTULab analyses clinical samples diagnosing infectious,
immunological and autoimmune diseases and genetic disorders of inherited and malignant
diseases. UTULab analyzes clinical samples consisting of bacterial culture and bacterial
PCR, infectious serology, autoimmune analyses, complement activity, virus tests including
serology, antigen detection, virus cultivation and PCR tests. The genetic tests include
immunogenetics, cytogenetic chromosome analyses on pre- and postnatal and
hematological samples and detection of a wide array of disease and malignancies related
gene defects. The number of different tests is more than 400 and the amount of samples
analyzed annually exceeds 200 000. The staff working in the diagnostic activity is appr. one
6
hundred. Besides the diagnostic activity UTULab has an active role in research, in
development of diagnostic methods and it is involved in teaching of medical students and
medical doctors specializing in Medical Microbiology and Immunology or in Medical
Genetics.
VTT–Technical Research Centre of Finland (www.vtt.fi)
VTT is a multidisciplinary expert organisation on technology development and business.
VTT's special strength is its ability to create new, globally competitive technologies and
innovations by combining knowledge and expertise in different fields. In VTT Turku, new
high-throughput cell based screening methods and biochip technologies are developed and
applied in drug development and diagnostics. The new technologies, such as organotypic
3D cell cultures, speed up the existing processes and also open up new therapeutic
opportunities. Systems biology techniques are used to identify biomarkers for future
diagnostic applications. Such biomarkers enable more precise diagnostics, and can be
included in the new generation of diagnostic systems, combining biosciences with
microelectronics and information technology.
1.2
Research Groups in Inflammation and Infectious Diseases
The members of the research projects belong either in Receptor Program (RP), Turku
Centre for Systems Biology (TCSB), or Program of Infection Biology and Infectious Diseases
(PIBID) that are Research programs of the BioCity Turku and Faculty of Medicine,
Universityof Turku. Contact information and other details are available at:
http://www.biocity.turku.fi/research-programs/
1.2.1
Pathogenesis of Lyme Borreliosis
Jukka Hytönen, MD, PhD, Docent, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology,
University of Turku
Email: [email protected]
Lyme borreliosis (LB) is an infectious disease caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi
sensu lato. It is the most important tick-transmitted disease in Finland and also globally. The
manifestations of LB include the local erythema migrans infection at the tick bite site and
infection of the nervous system, the heart, or the musculoskeletal system at the
disseminated stage of LB. Despite decades of active research on the pathogenesis and
diagnostics of LB a number of bacteriologically and clinically relevant questions remain
unanswered. We aim at answering these questions using genetically engineered borrelia, an
array of in vitro assays, and our mouse model of LB. Especially we aim at clarifying the role
of borrelia adhesins in the dissemination and tissue tropism of borrelia infection, and in the
evasion of immune response and antibiotic treatment.
1.2.2
Gut Immune System in Type 1 Diabetes
Arno Hänninen, MD, PhD, Docent, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology,
University of Turku
Email: [email protected]
The aim is to identify the key mechanisms which link gut immune system to the
pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes. Pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes results from complex
7
interactions between genetic susceptibility traits and environmental factors, most of which
appear to be linked to the gastrointestinal tract. These include various dietary factors,
enteroviruses and gut microbes. Our studies in the nonobese diabetic (NOD) mouse have
revealed common pathways in lymphocyte trafficking between gut and pancreas. Also
immune responses regulated by dietary and microbial factors in the distal gut are important.
By ex vivo imaging of lymph drainage from colon we define where and how gut microbes
and innate immune mechanisms intersect with activation of islet-reactive T-cells. In-depth
analysis of gut microbiota may allow us to characterize beneficial and harmful microbes and
identify pro- and antidiabetogenic gut symbionts.
1.2.3
Cell Trafficking
Sirpa Jalkanen, MD, PhD, Academy Professor, Department of Medical Microbiology and
Immunology, University of Turku; Marko Salmi, , MD, PhD, Professor of Immunology,
Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Turku
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Cell trafficking unit is one of the national centers of excellence. The overall goal of our
research is to elucidate the mechanisms that regulate the traffic of leukocytes in the body.
Harmful leukocyte migration into the heart in myocardial infarction (reperfusion injury), into
the joint tissue in rheumatoid arthritis and into the pancreas in diabetes are examples of
diseases where leukocytes cause extensive destruction. These inflammatory diseases can
be prevented by inhibiting leukocyte trafficking to those sites. Also metastasising malignant
cells often use the same mechanisms as leukocytes when extravasating from the blood to
different organs or migrating via the lymphatics into the distant sites. The results obtained in
this research can be utilized when new types of drugs are developed to treat harmful
inflammations and cancer.
1.2.4
Molecular and Systems Immunology and Stem Cell Biology
Riitta Lahesmaa, MD, PhD, Professor, Director of Turku Centre for Biotechnology,
University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University
Email: [email protected]
Our research aims at basic understanding and novel therapeutic modulation of harmful
cellular and immune responses. We investigate molecular mechanisms of 1) T helper cell
differentiation to functionally distinct subsets and human immune mediated diseases, in
particular Type 1 diabetes and 2) human stem cell pluripotency and certain types of cancer.
We exploit holistic genome wide methods and systems biology to reveal cell signaling,
transcriptional and epigenetic programs that determine cell differentiation and fate. We have
established an international multidisciplinary collaborative network to achieve the goals.
1.2.5
Identifying and Characterizing Target Specific Probiotics and Prebiotics
Seppo Salminen, PhD, Professor, Director of Functional Food Forum, University of Turku
Email: [email protected]
The target of the team is to isolate, identify and characterize probiotic and prebiotic
components, assess their properties and interactions with intestinal microbiota and health.
Intestinal tissue with and without microbiota have been used as a tool to achieve the target.
Applications include functional and clinical foods and nutrition. Probiotics properties are
assessed in collaboration with clinical and nutritional scientists. Specific strains and their
8
interaction with the human intestinal mucosa and microbiota form the basis for the work.
Interactions with both harmful food contaminants and common food matrices are
investigated using in vitro tests developed within the team focusing on future food uses. The
team has safety assessment method development and assessment of safety properties of
specific strains as priorities. In addition, human intervention studies are a focus area
especially concerning non-communicable life-style diseases.
1.2.6
Human Microbiome in Health and Disease
Erkki Eerola, MD, PhD, Docent, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology,
University of Turku; Pentti Huovinen, MD, PhD, Professor of Bacteriology, Vice Dean,
Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Turku
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
More than 100 trillion microorganisms, mostly bacteria, colonize the oral–gastrointestinal
tract, and most of these micro¬organisms reside in the distal intestine. These bacteria are
important for us in health and disease. Our group is studying changes of microbiota caused
by antibacterial agents, in different gastrointestinal and metabolic disorders and
development of microbiota in neurological development of children. The role of health
promoting bacterial species, like Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, and antimicrobial resistance
properties of individual gut bacteria and content of the whole resistome of the gut
microbiome are of special interest. We have also developed service for fecal sample
collection and specimen preparation for microbiome sequencing.
1.2.7
Mechanisms, Epidemiology and Prevention of Antimicrobial Resistance
Antti Hakanen, MD, PhD, Docent, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology,
University of Turku; Jari Jalava, PhD, Docent, National Institute for Health and Welfare;
Pentti Huovinen, MD, PhD, Professor of Bacteriology, Vice Dean, Department of Medical
Microbiology and Immunology, University of Turku
Email: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]
Development of bacterial resistance is one of the biggest health threats for modern society.
Antibiotic consumption in humans, animals, agriculture and aquaculture is increasing
resistance of pathogenic and environmental bacteria. Resistance genes are easily
transferred between bacteria, and resistant bacterial clones spread under antibiotic selection
pressure. We have studied antibiotic resistance of respiratory tract pathogens (e.g.
pneumococci and group A streptococci) as well as resistance of urinary tract and
gastrointestinal pathogens (e.g. E.coli, Salmonella and Campylobacter). Resistance
mechanisms of beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g. ESBL and carbapenemase production),
fluoroquinolones and macrolides are characterized on molecular level. In addition, antibiotic
consumption and epidemiology of bacterial resistance in outpatients are of our interest.
1.2.8
Pertussis: functional genomics, immunity and prevention
Qiushui He, MD, PhD, Laboratory Director, Antimicrobial Research Unit, National Institute for
Health and Welfare; Jussi Mertsola, MD, PhD, Professor of Pediatrics and Adolescent
Medicine, Turku University Hospital
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
The objectives of this project are 1) to study impact of changing from whole-cell to acellular
pertussis vaccine on incidence of disease and bacterial population, 2) to investigate
9
persistence of cell-mediated and humoral immunity after disease and vaccination, 3) to study
effect of polymorphisms of innate immune genes on antibody response after vaccination,
and 4) to develop new diagnostic and typing tools. The research group is leading a
EUpertstrain network in which 13 pertussis reference and research laboratories in ten
European countries are involved. The group is currently coordinating an ECDC funded
project entitled “Coordination of activities for laboratory surveillance of whooping cough in
Member States and EEA countries”. The other research projects of this group are focused
on genetic susceptibility to respiratory infectious diseases: crosstalk between bacteria and
host.
1.2.9
Respiratory Tract Infections in Children: Etiology, Epidemiology, Diagnosis,
Management, Prevention, and Total Impact on the Society
Terho Heikkinen, MD, PhD, Docent, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine,
University of Turku
Email: [email protected]
This long-term research project focuses on timely issues in the wide area of respiratory
infections and their complications in children. The project utilizes various study designs,
including prospective follow-up studies of large cohorts of children, randomized controlled
trials, and retrospective analyses. The ultimate goal of the study is to produce reliable, up-todate, and clinically useful information that would be directly applicable to everyday clinical
practice and that could also guide political decision-making in this area. For example, an
extensive 2-year follow-up study on the total impact of pediatric influenza on the society
proved pivotal for the Finnish decision in 2007 – as the first country in Europe – to include
influenza vaccination in the routine immunization program for all young children.
1.2.10 Herpes Simplex Virus: Host Responses and Gene Therapy Applications
Veijo Hukkanen, MD, PhD, Department of Virology, University of Turku
Email: [email protected]
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a promising backbone for gene therapy vector development.
We develop novel HSV vectors utilizing the bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) technology
and study the gene therapy of nervous system diseases using HSV. Our disease model is
murine EAE, serving as a model for multiple sclerosis (MS). We develop new HSV vectors
expressing favorable cytokines or neurotrophic factors. We develop means of delivery,
targeting, and imaging of the HSV vectors, as well as long-term expression using HSV
latency promoter. HSV with marker transgenes are utilized in the research of latency and
pathogenesis. We elucidate the cellular responses and innate immunity to HSV and HSV
vectors, also in organotypic ganglion cultures and long-term cultures of neuronal cells. We
also study control of HSV infection by RNA interference with siRNA swarms prepared
against essential HSV genes using phi6 polymerase and dicers. We have collaborations with
key laboratories in the HSV vector and latency fields.
1.2.11 Immunogenetics of Autoimmune Disease
Jorma Ilonen, MD, PhD, Professor of Immunogenetics, Department of Medical Microbiology
and Immunology, University of Turku
Email: [email protected]
Immunogenetics laboratory of Turku University is a research unit focusing on the studies of
gene polymorphisms regulating immune response and especially the significance of these
10
polymorphisms in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Environmental factors are also
important and these diseases result of interaction between genetic and environmental
factors. The single most important gene region regulating immune response is the (MHC)
major histocompatibility complex, in humans the HLA gene complex. Polymorphisms within
genes in this region are largely responsible for the genetic susceptibility to many
autoimmune diseases including type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, ankylosing spondylitis,
rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. In the case of type 1 diabetes the genetic
screening for disease susceptibility has been used in recruitment of subjects to research
projects where children at genetic risk have been followed-up in attempt to identify
environmental risk factors and for understanding of pathogenetic mechanisms responsible
for destruction of pancreatic beta-cells. Trials attempting to prevent clinical type 1 diabetes
either before the appearance of diabetes associated autoimmunity (primary prevention) or
after appearance of diabetes associated autoantibodies (secondary prevention) have also
been part of these projects.
1.2.12 Periodontal Inflammation and Infection
Eija Könönen, DDS, PhD, Professor, Department of Periodontology, Institute of Dentistry,
University of Turku
Email: [email protected]
The study objects are periodontal infection and infection-induced inflammation, oral biofilmhost interaction, impact of periodontitis on systemic diseases and salivary diagnostics in
periodontology. A major part of our research is directed to the use of saliva in large-scale
studies to detect the inflammatory process, including alveolar bone destruction, and
associated factors of innate immunity with the help of salivary biomarkers and/or bacterial
combinations. Another research line is basic laboratory work, where our interest is the
interaction of oral anaerobes with host cells in the periodontium.
1.2.13 Recurrent Respiratory Infections in Children
Ville Peltola, MD, PhD, Professor, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine,
University of Turku
Email: [email protected]
The main project of our research group is a prospective study of respiratory infections in a
cohort of 1800 children. Objectives of the study are: 1) To determine the burden of
respiratory infections in children, distribution of infections in the population, and the
microbiologic etiology, 2) To estimate the effect of social and family factors, type of day care,
nutrition, and other environmental factors on the morbidity from respiratory infections, and
3) To characterize the role of genetic variation in factors of innate immunity in susceptibility
of children to respiratory infections. The interactive roles of viral infection, bacterial infection,
host response, and environment of the child are studied to have a full view of respiratory
infections in children. These data are needed when new prevention and treatment strategies
are being developed, and the existing interventions are targeted correctly.
1.2.14 Optimal Management of Acute Otitis Media
Aino Ruohola, MD, PhD, Docent, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine,
University of Turku
Email: [email protected]
11
Study topics are acute otitis media in children: diagnostics, treatment, and follow-up as well
as nasopharyngeal microbiota in the pathogenesis of acute otitis media.
1.2.15 Picornavirus Tropism and Pathogenesis
Petri Susi, PhD, Department of Virology, University of Turku
Email: [email protected]
The project focuses on genetic variation (quasispecies diversity) of human entero-, rhinoand parechoviruses (within family Picornaviridae). Genetic variation affects the ability of the
virus to recognize and bind to its cellular receptor(s) and its ability to replicate within cells,
i.e. it plays the major role in picornavirus tropism and pathogenesis, and also affects their
use in oncolytic virotherapy. Besides sequence analyses, the molecular research gathers
around structural analysis of picornavirus particles in complex with receptor(s), receptor
identification, cellular infection and endocytosis studies, and small animal imaging of
picornavirus infection. The know-how on viral sequences and structures is also used to
develop novel diagnostics methods (RT-qPCR and antigen detection assay) for the detection
and typing of human picornaviruses.
1.2.16 Human Papillomavirus Infections: Molecular Pathogenesis and Transmission
Stina Syrjänen, DDS, PhD, Professor, Institute of Dentistry, University of Turku
Email: [email protected]
Approximately 19% of all human cancers are caused by infections, and human
papillomavirus (HPV) only has been estimated to cause one third of these cancers.
Persistent HPV infection is a key to malignant transformation. HPV infection has been
regarded as the most common sexually transmitted viral infection worldwide. However,
growing body of evidence suggests that HPV can be acquired through non-sexual routes;
one potential route being a mother-to-child transmission during the peri- and post-natal
period. Immune surveillance affects susceptibility to HPV lesions and their regression, and
failing humoral- or cellular immune response (CMI) of the host is suggested to be
responsible for disease progression. The natural immune response after primary HPV
infection is still largely unknown. The prospective Finnish Family HPV Study has been
ongoing since 1998 to clarify the dynamics of HPV transmission within a family, to assess i)
the modes of genital and oral HPV spread among infants and their parents as well as ii) the
outcome of these infections. The current focus of the Finnish Family HPV Study is HPV
specific immunity in the mothers and their children followed now more than 10 years.
1.2.17 Controlling Caries and Periodontitis-Associated Bacteria in Oral Biofilms in
Vitro and in Vivo
Eva Söderling, PhD, Docent, Institute of Dentistry, University of Turku; Riikka Ihalin, PhD,
Docent, Department of Biochemistry, University of Turku
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
The general aim of the project is to increase the knowledge about the principles of bacterial
biofilm formation in two oral biofilm-connected diseases, periodontitis and caries. The results
could help further development of means to prevent these two prevalent chronic biofilm
infections.
12
1.2.18 Host Response and Molecular Variation in Respiratory and Enteric Virus
Infections
Matti Waris, PhD, Docent, Department of Virology, University of Turku
Email: [email protected]
Study topics are epidemiology and disease associations of circulating strains of clinically
important respiratory and enteric viruses, focusing on respiratory syncytial -, rhino -, enteroand adenoviruses, development of molecular diagnostic tools for virus groups, individual
strains, and their phylogenetic analysis, investigation of host response to infection by
profiling the expression of innate inflammatory markers and interferon-inducible proteins,
such as MxA. Combined with clinical outcomes of the patients, these studies are aiming to
obtain improved total picture of the infections and generating new insights for the treatment
and prevention of respiratory virus infections.
1.2.19 Molecular Epidemiology of Health Care Associated Infections and Severe
Bacterial Infections
Jaana Vuopio, MD, PhD, research professor, Head of Unit, National Institute for Health and
Welfare
Email: [email protected]
Study topics are molecular epidemiology, prevention and surveillance of multiresistant and
hospital acquired bacterial infections (such as those caused by methicillin resistant
Staphylococcus aureus, MRSA, and vancomycin-resistant enterococci, VRE) and severe
bacterial infections caused by beta-hemolytic streptococci (Streptococcus pyogenes and
Streptococcus agalactiae), and characterization of host susceptibility and risk factors to
staphylococcal and streptococcal infections.
1.2.20 Etiology and Immunopathogenesis of Virus Infections with Special Reference
to Exacerbation of Asthma
Tytti Vuorinen, MD, PhD, Docent, Department of Virology, University of Turku, Tuomas
Jartti, MD, PhD, Docent, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Turku
University Hospital
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Vinku study group (http://vinku.utu.fi) investigates the early pathogenesis of childhood
asthma. The special interest is on the mechanisms related to susceptibility to viral infections
and the role of viruses with special emphasis on rhinoviruses in the pathogenesis:
inflammatory mechanisms, genetics, environmental factors, medication and age related
development of immune system. Currently, several large clinical cohorts are under
investigation in the Department of Pediatrics (TJ), Turku University Hospital. Virology is
performed in the Department of Virology, University of Turku (TV).
13
2 BIOTURKU® COMPANIES AND THE PRODUCT AND PROJECT
PORTFOLIOS
Abacus Diagnostica Ltd (www.abacusdiagnostica.com)
Company Profile:
Abacus Diagnostica Oy, established in 2004, is focusing on the development of novel, rapid
and simple solutions for DNA testing. Our proprietary GenomEra™ platform is a powerful
tool for routine DNA based testing, allowing a totally new approach with no need for
dedicated laboratory facilities or special trained personnel. The GenomEra™ platform
combines a rapid assay principle employing Time Resolved Fluorescence detection with a
simple-to-use reagent concept, which together with the automated analyzer including a builtin thermal cycler takes DNA-testing to a new level of convenience and simplicity without
compromising high performance, quality of results and reliability.The first product is the
GenomEra CDX™ system, intended for clinical laboratory use for rapid detection of
infectious diseases. First test kits will be made available for MRSA, followed by an STDpanel for Chlamydia Trachomatis and Neisseria Gonorrhoeae.
Product and Project Portfolio:
Rapid nucleic acid diagnostics.
ArcDia Group (www.arcdia.com)
Company Profile:
ArcDia Group is a company for development and marketing of innovative immunoassay
products. ArcDia is focused on point-of-care and near-patient testing of infectious diseases
with special emphasis on respiratory infections. ArcDia provides automated random-access
immunoassay analysers for near-patient testing. ArcDia's test portfolio includes, among
others, the pandemic influenza viruses, swine H1N1 and avian H5N1. ArcDia's products are
available for R&D collaboration, licensing, and distribution.
Product and Project Portfolio:
Rapid multianalyte test for respiratory infections. Random-access immunoassay analysers.
Bayer Schering Pharma Oy (www.bayer.fi)
Company Profile:
Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the fields of health care, nutrition and
high-tech materials. The company’s products and services are designed to benefit people
and improve their quality of life.In Finland Bayer Oy focuses on marketing the product
portfolio of Bayer Group in Finland: OTC products of Bayer Consumer Care, equipment for
monitoring diabetes therapy from Bayer Diabetes Care, prescription drugs of Bayer Schering
Pharma, crop protection products and pesticides from Bayer CropScience as well as
materials and chemicals for industry from Bayer MaterialScience. Bayer Schering Pharma
Oy focuses on the international business of prescription drugs: research and development,
production, and export of products to over 100 countries. The plant in Turku is one of the
global pharmaceutical production plants of the Group. In Finland Bayer employs more than
700 persons and their offices are located in Turku and Espoo.
Product and Project Portfolio:
Products from the plant in Turku: MIRENA® - hormonal intrauterine system, JADELLE® contraceptive implant, NOVA T® and NOVA T® 380 copper intrauterine devices,
BONEFOS®, a product for supportive cancer therapy, RECOFOL®, a short-acting
anaesthetic and TAMOFEN®, a product for the treatment of breast cancer.
14
Biotie Therapies Corp. (www.biotie.com)
Company Profile:
Biotie is a drug discovery and development company focused on central nervous system
and inflammatory diseases. It has a broad range of innovative small molecule and biological
drug candidates at different stages of clinical and pre-clinical development. Biotie’s products
address diseases with high unmet medical need and significant market potential, including
addiction and psychotic disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD). The most advanced product, nalmefene for alcohol
dependence, is currently in phase III clinical development by licensing partner H. Lundbeck
A/S.The commercial value of the pipeline has been demonstrated through existing alliances
with top-tier global pharmaceutical companies such as Lundbeck, Roche and Pfizer. Biotie
has operations in Turku, Finland and Radebeul, Germany. Shares are listed on NASDAQ
OMX Helsinki Ltd.
Product and project Portfolio:
Biotie’s lead product, the opioid receptor antagonist nalmefene, is in phase III clinical trials
for the treatment of alcoholism. The Company has licensed worldwide marketing and
development rights to Lundbeck, a leading CNS company. Also in the CNS field, Biotie is
developing phosphodiesterase 10 (PDE-10) inhibitors for schizophrenia; Pfizer has licensed
certain rights to this programme, and a research collaboration between the companies has
recently identified a clinical drug candidate. In the inflammatory disease area, Biotie is
developing both a monoclonal antibody and a small molecule inhibitor of the VAP-1 protein;
Roche has options to license both of these programmes. The VAP-1 mAb is currently in
clinical trials in rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. A phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE-4) inhibitor is
also in clinical trials, and is a potential treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD) and other inflammatory diseases. Biotie also has several discovery and early
development projects in different stages from hit discovery to lead optimization underway,
including PDE-2 inhibitors and a2b1 integrin inhibitors.
BonAlive Biomaterials Ltd (www.bonalive.com)
Company Profile:
BonAlive Biomaterials Ltd is a manufacturer of implantable medical devices and we provide
orthopaedic and cranio-maxillofacial surgeons with a 100% synthetic bioactive bone graft
substitute (BonAlive®). BonAlive® has the unique feature that it inhibits bacterial growth,
giving it a strong position in the market place for treating chronically infected bone
Product and project Portfolio:
Bioactive glass (BonAlive®) synthetic bone graft substitute.
DelSiTech Ltd (www.delsitech.com)
Company Profile:
DeSiTech Ltd, founded in 2001, specialises in a silica-based controlled release technology
for small molecular drugs and biopharmaceuticals: viral vectors, proteins, heparins. Routes
of administration: implant, sc and im. Oncology and other therapeutic areas where controlled
released technology for local/systemic use is needed.
Product and Project Portfolio:
Controlled drug delivery (implant, im, sc) Delivery times days-months. Systemic and local
delivery. Viral vectors, proteins, small molecular drugs. Out-licensing of technology & codevelopment projects.
15
DHR Finland Oy, Innotrac Diagnostics (www.innotrac.fi)
Company Profile:
Innotrac Diagnostics was founded in 1995 and has approximately 70 employees, fully
acquired by Radiometer A/S, Denmark in 2006. Since then an integral part of Radiometer’s
Acute Care Business Unit focusing on R&D and manufacturing of short turn-around-time
(TAT) diagnostic testing at Emergency and Intensive Care Units.
Product and Service Portfolio:
Non-enhanced time-resolved fluorescence and "All-in-One" dry chemistry technology
allowing high performance diagnostic testing in a non-laboratory clinical environment.
Innotrac Diagnostics focuses on cardiac and other critical care applications such as acute
Myocardial Infarction (AMI), Congestive Hear Failure (CHF), coagulation disturbances and
sepsis.
Faron Pharmaceuticals Ltd (www.faronpharmaceuticals.com)
Company Profile:
Faron is a clinically staged drug discovery and development company with three major drug
development projects (see previously) focusing on acute trauma, incipient vasculopathies,
inflammatory diseases, and cancer growth and metastasis. Faron’s lead product FP-1201
(Traumakine®) is entering phase III clinical trial in 2012 to treat vascular leakage in
ALI/ARDS patients.
Product and Project Portfolio:
Proprietary pharmaceutical targets include CD73, Clecer-1 and AOC3.
Galilaeus Oy (Ltd) (www.galilaeus.fi)
Company Profile:
Contract manufacturing: Production of cytotoxics / immunosuppressants / antibiotics / fungal
products for preclinics and on-market needs. In addition synthetics, biocatalysts and cell
mass. Strain/fermentation development: Developing microbial and fungal strains through
genetic modification/traditional mutagenization to produce the desired API with dramatically
increased yield. Fermentation and down stream process improvement - also using
biocatalysis and biotransformation - with a considerable increase in robustness, purity and
cost-efficiency. Out-licensing technology: Immediately available – Tacrolimus, Dauno-and
Doxorubicin, Statins (3), Antimicrobials (2). In addition custom technology projects based on
customer requests. Consulting: Regulatory affairs and Quality issues (ICH standards
applicable). Analytics: Microbiology and molecular biology services (e.g. gene library, MCS
and WCS, bioassay).
Product, Project and Service Portfolio
Process technologies of APIs for out-licensing. Developing customer requested
technologies. Contract manufacturing of APIs, cell mass and biocatalysts. Strong know-how
in Streptomyces bacteria and cytotoxics.
HyTest Ltd (www.hytest.fi)
Company Profile:
Hytest Ltd, founded in 1994, offers innovative solutions for assay development and research
applications by providing high-quality immunological reagents in such areas as cardiac
markers, infectious, neuroscience and autoimmune disease reagents. Hytest is a leading
provider of several reagents such as antibodies and antigens of the troponin I and troponin
complex. Hytest also offers extensive customer services and has a certified ISO 9001:2000
quality system.
16
Product and Project Portfolio:
Immunological reagents.
Labmaster Oy (www.labmaster.fi)
Company Profile:
Labmaster Oy is privately owned and employs 8 professionals. The company is specialized
in technology development, manufacturing and marketing of own IVD products. Over 95 %
of turnover is generated from exporting products worldwide. Since 2001 the company has
been investing strongly in development of novel proprietary detection technology platform
combining Silicon chip technology and recent findings in Electrochemiluminescence
detection technology. Commercialization of LM-CECL technology in Point of Care market a
pplications is the most important objective at the moment and in future for the company.
Product and Project Portfolio:
Phytoestrogen kits (TR-FIA) are based on the use of microtitration plates and therefore
allows screening of numerous samples simultaneously. They are used for research of
functional food ingredients, specifically fiber-rich food and isoflavones and their anticarcinogenic features. LM-CECL (Hot Electron Induced Cathodic Electrochemiluminescence), novel proprietary detection technology for use in analytical and diagnostic
applications (POC). LM-CECL technology is most suitable for low cost all-in-one chip based
quantitative diagnostic tests in future where very excellent analytical sensitivity and reliability
of results is needed.
Montisera Ltd (www.montisera.com)
Company Profile:
Montisera develops bioactive compounds and sells them onwards for commercialization.
Mission is to make molecule development more efficient and to offer high-value, low-risk
investment opportunities. Projects bring together investors, candidate molecule owners,
contract research organizations and drug & biotechnology companies. Lean organization
with experienced professionals. Founded in March 2012.
Product and Project Portfolio:
Montisera makes molecule development more efficient and offers higher-value, lower risk
investment opportunities. Our mission is to provice our customers with a fast and costeffective way to develop lead molecules from discovery through clinical proof of concept
Pharmatest Services Oy (www.pharmatest.com)
Company Profile:
Pharmatest Services Ltd is a Contract Research Organization offering translational research
services for diseases with unmet clinical needs. We offer full-service research solutions for
early drug development. Our focus is on preclinical efficacy models in the fields of cancer
and skeletal diseases, ranging from in vitro cell culture assays to in vivo models.
Product and Project Portfolio:
Clinically predictive preclinical research services for pharmaceutical and biotechnology
industry.
Perkin Elmer Life and Analytical Sciences / Wallac Oy (www.perkinelmer.com)
Company Profile:
The Life & Analytical Sciences (LAS) division of PerkinElmer provides drug discovery,
genetic screening and chemical analysis instrumentation, reagents and services for scientific
research and clinical applications. PerkinElmer offers for biopharma customers integrated
17
solutions that accelerate the drug discovery process, improve time-to-market, help meet
regulatory requirements and create greater manufacturing efficiencies. The clinical screening
customers are offered comprehensive screening systems to accurately and efficiently detect
genetic deficiencies.
Product and Project Portfolio:
Integrated solutions to accelerate the drug discovery processes, improve time-to-market,
help meet regulatory requirements and create greater manufacturing efficiencies.
Comprehensive screening systems to accurately and efficiently detect genetic deficiencies
and abnormalities, application-driven solution systems for laboratory work. The product
portfolio includes reagent kits for Newborn and Prenatal Screening and diagnostic kits for
Thyroid, Fertility, Oncology, Anemia, and Diabetes. Instruments offered are: Gamma
Counters, Quantulus, Victor, MicroBeta, Envision, Viewlux, AutoDelfia, Delfia Xpress and
application software.
Vitabalans Oy (www.vitabalans.fi)
Company Profile:
Vitabalans Oy was founded in 1980 and employs 160 people. The company develops,
manufactures and markets prescription pharmaceuticals, self-care preparations, health food
supplements and health care products for animals.
Product and Project Portfolio:
Pharmaceutical development, manufacturing and marketing of pharmaceuticals,
killers, infection medication, nutraceuticals, etc.
e.g. pain
Solid Scientific Base –
Solid
Scientific
Base – and Experts in Biotechnology
Source
of Innovations
Source of Innovations and Experts in Biotechnology
■ 140 professors
■
140 professors
■ ~1000
scientists in 80 groups
■
~1000
scientistsstudents
in 80 groups
■ 5500 university
■
university
students
■ 5500
12 Graduate
Schools
■ 12
Schools
10 Graduate
Doctoral
■ 80
new
PhDsPrograms
/ MDs per year
■ 80
/ MDs
per yearannually
100new
newPhDs
Doctors
(PhD/MD)
BioTurku®® – Non-Confidential Publications:
BioTurku – Non-Confidential Publications:
Non-Confidential Information on
Diagnostics
Cancer and
Non-Confidential
Information on
Hormonal
Diseases
Cancerin BioTurku
and
Hormonal Diseases
in BioTurku®
in BioTurku®
in BioTurku®
www.turkusciencepark.com
www.turkusciencepark.com
www.turkusciencepark.com
www.turkusciencepark.com
www.turkusciencepark.com
www.turkusciencepark.com
Non-Confidential Information on
Diagnostics
Non-Confidential Information
on®
in BioTurku
Diagnostics
Diagnostics
in
BioTurku®
in BioTurku®
®
Cancer and Hormonal
®
Cancer
and
Hormonal
Diseases
in BioTurku
Diseases in BioTurku®
BioTurku®® Companies:
BioTurku Companies:
Biotechnology
Companies
in BioTurku
Biotechnology
Companies
®
in BioTurku®
From research to Products
From research to Products
www.turkusciencepark.com
www.turkusciencepark.com
Biotechnology
Biotechnology
Companies
Companies
in
BioTurku®
in BioTurku®
Non-Confidential Information on
Diseases of the CNS
in BioTurku
Non-Confidential Information
on®
Diseases of the CNS
Diseases of the CNS
Diseases
of the®CNS
in BioTurku
in BioTurku®
Inflammatory and
Inflammatory
and
Infectious
Diseases
Infectious
Diseases
in BioTurku®
in BioTurku®
FINLAND
NORWAY
Turku
SWEDEN
DENMARK
www.turkusciencepark.com