As part of the EU project “Heniprotect,” CeBiTec at Bielefeld University is developing a new platform for producing therapeutic antibodies in microalgae. The aim is to develop an inhalable antibody therapy against dangerous Nipah and Hendra viruses and to establish a rapidly scalable production system for future pandemics.
The Center for Biotechnology (CeBiTec) at Bielefeld University is playing a central role in the new European research project “Heniprotect” (HENIpavirus PROTECTion via inhaled antibody solution). Funded by the European Union under Horizon Europe, the project is developing an inhalable antibody therapy against the dangerous Nipah and Hendra viruses. The project is coordinated by the French research institute Inserm, with a total of 18 partners from research, medicine, and industry involved.
© Universität Bielefeld/ privat
The focus of the Bielefeld team’s contribution is the production of humanized antibodies using the green microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The “Algal Biotechnology and Bioenergy” research group at CeBiTec is investigating how microalgae can be used as a cost-effective and scalable production platform for therapeutic antibodies. To this end, Professor Olaf Kruse and Dr. Thomas Baier will initially develop suitable genetic tools. Production will then be demonstrated in mobile and scalable bioreactors with a capacity of up to 30 liters. The research group led by Professor Olaf Kruse contributes extensive expertise in microalgal development and bioproduction, building on successful European research projects aimed at integrating microalgal biotechnology into industrial value chains.
At the same time, the project is pursuing a novel therapeutic approach against henipaviruses: a combination of neutralizing antibodies is to be administered directly through the respiratory tract. An initial humanized antibody candidate will be further developed toward clinical testing. A second antibody will target another site on the virus, thereby reducing the risk of viral escape through mutations.
In addition to developing the therapy, the project aims to establish structures that will enable a rapid response to future pandemics. This includes new production processes and cost-effective methods of administration. Microalgae could provide a flexible alternative to established production systems based on mammalian cells. “Heniprotect” started on September 1, 2026, and will run until August 31, 2032. The project is funded with a total of €16.32 million in European funding.
