Flindr Labs and the Institute of Oncology Research
Flindr Labs and the Institute of Oncology Research join forces in the project PRECISION-31: the development of an entirely new class of medicine against blood cancer. Hezelburcht supported the full European grant process, resulting in a successful application.
Flindr Labs join forces with Institute of Oncology Research in developing cancer medicine
Flindr Labs is an innovative Belgian biotech company, born out of research at the Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI) and VIB. As the operational branch of Flindr Therapeutics, Flindr Labs specializes in biological research and translational science, bridging the gap between target identification and preclinical validation. Flindr develops first-in-class medicines: drugs that act on proteins that have so far remained untargeted. For this project, Flindr partnered with the Swiss Institute of Oncology Research (IOR), a leading centre in translational cancer research. Together they form a strong, international consortium uniting industry and academia.
Focus on targetting RNF31
Flindr focuses on RNF31, a protein that plays a key role in cancer cell survival but has never been clinically targeted. To advance this promising molecule toward its first clinical studies, additional funding was needed, along with access to patient-derived material and advanced translational models.
For patients with blood cancers (such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma, leukaemia and multiple myeloma) treatment options are still limited. Existing therapies work well, but many patients face relapsed or refractory disease. That’s why there is a clear and urgent need for new therapies and new therapeutic targets.
The project PRECISION-31
Within PRECISION-31 (a 24-month project), Flindr and IOR advance the RNF31 inhibitor to a validated preclinical candidate package, ready for clinical development. The project combines two innovations: novel therapy itself, and potentially a biomarker-driven strategy that helps predict which patients are most likely to benefit. In this way, PRECISION-31 brings precision medicine one step closer to the patient.
Hezelburcht’s role
Hezelburcht guided the entire grant process within the European Eurostars programme, which encourages innovative SMEs to collaborate internationally on R&D. From the first strategic exploration and consortium alignment to writing and submitting a compelling application: our Life Sciences & Health specialists contributed to substance and ensured an application that aligned seamlessly with the programme’s requirements. Thanks to their relevant scientific background, they speak the client’s language and elevate the project plan to a high level.
The application was awarded, further development secured
The application was awarded. With the Eurostars grant, Flindr and IOR can deepen their collaboration and further develop the RNF31 inhibitor toward the clinic. A well-deserved reward and an important step toward better treatments for patients with blood cancer.
Hezelburcht’s expertise, structured approach, and commitment played a key role in developing a strong Eurostars application. Their team was not only highly professional, but also genuinely friendly and enjoyable to work with throughout the entire process. - Joelle Vos, Head of Operations & Analytics Flindr Tx
