An open incubator showing the patient-derived cell-cultures used in target validation for precision oncology drug discovery.

In-depth target validation and characterization

Integrating molecular, cellular, and translational evidence to establish target relevance and therapeutic potential across defined cancer patient populations.

Check out the process Patient-derived tumor models

Target validation and characterizationFrom computational prediction to biological evidence

Cancer targets emerging from our multi-omics and clinical data platform IndivuType® are advanced into a comprehensive validation and characterization workflow powered by clinically annotated biobank samples and patient-derived cancer models. By integrating molecular, biochemical, and cellular analyses, we generate the biological evidence and mechanistic insight needed to prioritize high-confidence targets for biologics and small-molecule development.

Explore by modality

Patient-derived tumor modelsHigh-quality tissue samples are foundational to cancer drug discovery.

A key differentiator of our research platform is the exceptional quality and standardization of our tumor biobank. Rapid tissue acquisition and standardized workflows preserve the molecular and cellular complexity of patient tumors, creating a uniquely rich foundation for translational research.

These clinically annotated samples not only fuel the generation of high-quality molecular and clinical datasets but also enable the development of proprietary patient-derived 2D and 3D tumor models. Closely reflecting the biological and phenotypic characteristics of the original disease, these models provide a powerful platform for target validation, mechanistic studies, and the evaluation of novel therapeutic strategies in a physiologically relevant setting.

More about our tissue collection

Target validation and characterizationBiologics

Successful antibody therapeutics require targets that can be reached precisely and safely. Enabled by our unique biobank of clinically annotated patient samples and patient-derived tumor models, our validation and characterization strategy defines the expression profile, accessibility, and biological context of a target, guiding the selection of the most appropriate antibody modality. Key areas of investigation include:

Patient population stratification and target prevalence
Comparative IHC profiling across tumor and healthy tissues
Cellular localization and target accessibility
Epitope mapping and target engagement
Functional impact of target modulation

Target validation and characterizationSmall Molecules

Not every biologically relevant target is druggable. Central to our approach is the development of tailored, target-specific cellular assays in patient-derived 2D and 3D tumor models. Combined with molecular and biochemical characterization, these assays uncover the features that distinguish tractable targets and create opportunities for selective pharmacological intervention. Key areas of investigation include:

Pathway dependencies and target vulnerabilities
Molecular function and enzymatic activity
Structural features and conformational dynamics
Ligandability and binding-site characterization
Target engagement and mechanism-of-action studies
Selectivity and therapeutic window

Patient-derived cell cultures result in models that closely represent tumor biology.

Go to therapeutic development Back to target discovery Partnering with Indivumed