Plant Research International, part of Wageningen University and Research Centre
in the Netherlands, together with CatchMabs, have announced a cooperative study
to apply iMab technology to detect mycotoxins in food and plant pathogens in
plant material. The partners will advance the work for applications at the nano-level.
CatchMabs develops ‘industrial Molecular Affinity Bodies' (iMabs) – proteins
capable of making highly specific and exceptionally strong combinations of previously
defined molecules. iMabs are very stable proteins, which means they can also
be used under extreme conditions.
One of the core activities of Plant Research International is research to improve
the health status of our food. The institute develops diagnostic techniques and
methods for the detection of pathogens in plants, including fungi and viruses.
In the framework of these activities, Plant Research International is one of
the partners in the EU project ‘eBIOSENSE'. The goal of this project is to develop
a ‘chip' that can be used for the fast detection of both mycotoxins and pathogens
in food.
Plant Research International and CatchMabs complement each other well. “The know-how
and network of Plant Research International makes it possible for us to sell
products based upon our patented techniques in completely new markets,” comments
Peter Sijmons, CEO of CatchMabs.
Peter Booman, general director of Plant Research International: “The techniques
and knowledge available at CatchMabs will support us in realising our ambition
to be a world leader in the research of healthy food as well as pests and diseases
in plants.”
For more information:
Plant Research International: Erik Toussaint, tel. +31 (0) 317 47 70 17; private
+31 (0) 317 41 68 84
CatchMabs (see also www.catchmabs.com ), Peter Lens +31 (0)6 2201 5543
