How is the research campus making a difference?

The research campus InfectoGnostics develops and combines light-based and molecular biological processes to enable reliable detection of pathogens (viruses, bacteria and fungi) and their antibiotic resistances, and to better understand the host organism’s response (e.g. in the case of sepsis). In a triad of technology, clinical application and production, laboratory assays and rapid tests are being developed for use in healthcare and veterinary medicine, but also for water and food analyses.

Thanks to the eye-level collaboration of public and private partners, small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) in particular, the research campus InfectoGnostics dismantles barriers to the introduction of new diagnostics and accelerates the translation of research into market-ready products. Results of fundamental research which are based on unmet clinical needs are funnelled through to diagnostic routine and thus to the users more quickly.

Jena as an important location for research and development in photonics (light-based processes) and biotechnology offers ideal conditions for transferring completely new diagnostic solutions into marketable products. The research campus InfectoGnostics brings clinical expertise straight to industry-relevant research, development and manufacturing. The research campus also enables the joint use of research equipment and mutual access to patient samples.

What is the main focus of the research campus?

For patients suffering from septicaemia or immunodeficient patients with pneumonia, quick diagnosis of the pathogen and its possible antibiotic resistances is crucial for optimal treatment. Outbreaks with a common source of multiple resistant bacteria, such as MRSA, are on the rise and completely new strains of resistant germs are also posing a threat and making treatment more difficult. Modern diagnosis of infections requires non-invasive solutions that are gentle on the patient and detect pathogens and their resistances quickly, cost-effectively and at point of care. This is the approach which InfectoGnostics adopts. Partners from scientific and industrial research are working in joint projects to transfer innovative diagnostic approaches quickly into patient care. Photonic and molecular biological methods are in the focus here, supported by methods from bioinformatics, and increasingly by artificial intelligence in particular.