STEP4NAMs — Biovia joins European effort to boost animal replacement methods
STEP4NAMs, an EU co-funded Interreg project aims to create accommodating conditions for a widespread adoption of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) in (bio)pharma and medtech.
Animal models have long been considered indispensable in biomedical research, providing an essential link between experimental systems and human application. Today, advanced digital and biotechnological solutions—such as organoids, organs-on-chip, 3D bioprinting and digital twins—offer the same or even better levels of translatability, without the use of animals.
Key challenges hindering the full adoption of these NAM technologies include:
- Limited awareness and expertise to integrate them into research
- Absence of specific regulatory guidelines to support straightforward approval
- Lack of both funding and a unified infrastructure to enable efficient development and implementation
Through cross-border collaboration with 10 partners from six European countries, STEP4NAMs aims to drive adoption of NAMs through validating applications, creating a comprehensive validation manual, training professionals to apply NAMs and reinforcing a network of stakeholders to promote innovation.
Biovia is a proud partner in this cross-border collaborative project. By mobilizing stakeholders in medical biotech, medtech and digital health, Biovia’s participation ensures that the Flemish ecosystem is at the forefront of NAM pilots, collaborations, training, regulatory guidance and networking. The project fits perfectly with Biovia’s One Health vision, advancing health innovation to generate a better future for people, animals and planet.
Want to get involved in the STEP4NAMs project? Contact our project lead, Katrien Lorré.
