Technology Offerings

Chronic viral infections are characterized by a reduced responsiveness of T lymphocytes; a process also termed T cell exhaustion. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) has been shown to be critically involved in this exhaustion process. Consequently, our invention suggests the use of anti-TNFalpha strategies, i.e. either blockade of the TNF-receptor (TNFR) binding side or its enzymatic activity by existing drugs (e.g. Infliximab, Etanercept) for the general treatment of persisting viral infections with the aim to restore T cell function. Proof for the success of this approach has been delivered by the LCMV mouse model and the in vitro treatment of HIV patients, and is in addition supported by results from studies in systems biology. On behalf of University of Bonn and University of Cologne, we are offering this opportunity for licensing. In case of interest we will be pleased to inform you about the patent status.

The increasing trend towards lightweight constructions, especially in the aerospace sector and in automotive production requires the use of new technologies, manufacturing processes and materials. FRP in particular, are frequently used in this context, due to their high stiffness and strength. The invention proposes a reliable method to weld FRP components onto other FRP components or onto metallic structures. This becomes possible by inserting metallic inserts into the composite, that serve as bridging points to enable a resistance projection welding process. A patent application has been filed in Germany. On behalf of the RWTH University, PROvendis is seeking a partner for further development in view of funding and licensing the technology.

The field of application of the new technology is the computer-based modelling of three-dimensional objects (as e.g. in a virtual space). The new technology includes a cross-device three dimensional modelling technique that will enable the development of a three-dimensional modelling system, which contains two-dimensional input devices (as e.g. mouse or touch interface) for controlling and further three-dimensional input devices.

The invention here presented is a cordless electric screwdriver wearable on the hand. The flexible shaft runs over the back of the hand transferring the torque effectively to the screwdriver tip which can be precisely addressed with the index finger. The entire compressive force required at the bit is transferred across the guiding structure into the frame of the screwdriver mounted at the hand. The human finger does not to bring up the compressive force since the structure can be locked in the working position. The handle offers a comfortable grip and an easy access to the power-switch on the side with the thumb. The device is easy to handle, comfortable to be worn through the supplied glove and can be used for long working sessions without strain on the wrist. It has an optimal distribution of the weight due to the flexible shaft running over the back of the hand. An additional switch inverts the rotation direction to unscrew the screws. The ergonomic shape of the flexible electric screwdriver simplifies inserting and removing screws in many working positions and can also be used for drilling. A fully working prototype of the flexible screwdriver has been tested and a patent application has been filed in Germany. On behalf of the RWTH University, PROvendis is seeking a partner for further development in view of licensing the technology.

This technology enables production of glycosylated peptides using a new method relying an a photocleavable auxiliary comprising a PEG attachment and a thiol group for native chemical ligation (NCL).

This technology enables production of glycosylated peptides using a new, patented method relying on a two-step procedure involving reversibly conjugating a peptide with a hydrophilic polymer such as PEG and subsequently glycosylating the polymer-conjugated peptide using glycosyltransferases.