Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences and ZytoVision launch a research project to develop sustainable monoclonal antibodies without the use of animal components

Bremerhaven, August 2026

Monoclonal antibodies are an indispensable component of modern medical diagnostics and biomedical research. However, their production has so farrelied on animal-derived components – an approach that is increasingly coming under scrutiny in the light of growing demands for sustainability and animal welfare. Through a joint research project, Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences and ZytoVision GmbH (a company of the Zytomics Group) aim to make an innovative contribution to the development of sustainable biotechnological solutions.

At the heart of the collaboration is the development of an algae-based, animal-free alternative to the culture media currently used for antibody-producing cells. The aim is to produce so-called ‘green antibodies’ for the first time and to demonstrate their suitability for use in medical diagnostics. As the project progresses, the antibodies developed will be comprehensively validated in established diagnostic test systems.

The project combines innovative biotechnology with sustainable production approaches. If the antibodies prove suitable for diagnostic use, the project could lay the foundation for a more resource-efficient production of monoclonal antibodies and, in the long term, significantly reduce the use of animal-derived components in diagnostics.

On behalf of ZytoVision GmbH, the research project is scientifically led by Marcus Gräber-Gerberding, Vice President of Research and Development at the Zytomics Group, and Dr Britta Meyer, Director of Research and Development for ISH/Molecular Diagnostics at ZytoVision GmbH.

The project is funded by BIS Bremerhaven and co-financed by the European Union under the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF Bremen 2021–2027).

Dr Sandra Götze, Scientific Project Coordinator, ZytoVision GmbH, Fischkai 1, 27572 Bremerhaven,

Tel.: 0471 / 4832 341, www.zytomics.com