Feasibility

The conceptual foundations that drive our research, from relevance to logical design processes.

1890

Microalgae First Found

Microalgae were first discovered as microscopic photosynthetic organisms with a well-defined nucleus, identified as Chlorella vulgaris by Dutch microbiologist Martinus Willem Beijerinck. The name 'Chlorella' derives from the Greek 'chloros' meaning 'green' and the Latin suffix '-ella' indicating its small size.

Microalgae First Found

Source: (Fakhri et al., 2021; Sudanese RedaKleavan Nielsen research, n.d.)

1891

Immunotherapy first found

Immunotherapy was first found as a concept in the late 19th century when Dr. William B. Coley, known as the Father of Immunotherapy, observed that some cancer patients experienced remission after contracting bacterial infections (Streptococcus pyogenes and Serratia marcescens).

Immunotherapy first found

Source: (Ipostsure, 2023)

1961

Logic Gate Circuit in Biology

Logic gate circuits in biology were first conceptualized by François Jacob and Jacques Monod in 1961, which works as a biological 'switch'. These biological circuits enable cells to perform logical operations and make decisions based on specific molecular inputs.

Logic Gate Circuit in Biology

Source: (Yin et al., 2018)

1990

First approved immunotherapy commercial drug

The first approved immunotherapy drug was Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG), approved in 1990 for non-invasive bladder cancer. BCG stimulates the immune system to attack cancer cells. Another early approved immunotherapy was Interferon-alfa-2 (IFN-α-2) in 1986.

First approved immunotherapy commercial drug

Source: (Markus, 2020)

2000

Modern Chemotherapy

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) were conceptualized a century ago by Paul Ehrlich as a “magic bullet” combining targeted antibodies with potent cytotoxic drugs. The first ADC, Gemtuzumab ozogamicin, was approved in 2000 for acute myeloid leukemia.

Modern Chemotherapy

Schematic structure of an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC). Source: (Sudha, 2023; Dean, 2023).

NOW

Recent Microalgae advancement as Biomedic

Recent advances show microalgae's promise in biomedicine due to their rich bioactive compounds, biocompatibility, rapid growth, and sustainable production. They are explored for drug delivery, bio-imaging, and as therapeutic agents themselves.

Recent Microalgae advancement as Biomedic

Microalga for Biomedicine. Source: Personal Documentation, 2023

Future

Ethical, Legal, and Social Challenges

Ethical challenges in microalgae-based biomedicine include public acceptance, limited regulatory pathways, environmental impact, and equitable access. These issues must be addressed to ensure responsible innovation.

Technical Challenges

Microalgae face technical hurdles such as precise control over protein expression, targeted delivery, migration, stability in vivo, and potential immunogenicity. Overcoming these is key to their biomedical success.

Clinical Trial

Microalgae use in preclinical or biomedical stages is still limited. Significant hurdles in clinical translation and regulatory approval must be overcome, including demonstrating safety, efficacy, and consistent manufacturing standards.