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PIMS®
PIMS® is a patented, label-free biophysical and analytical technology designed to study molecular interactions and predict therapeutic responses in biomedical research.
By leveraging near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, PIMS® detects subtle nanoscale modification when proteins and other biomolecules interact with drugs or other exogenous molecules. This unique approach generates dynamic “fingerprints” of a biological sample’s macromolecular structure and signalling activity, offering powerful insights into tissue response and personalized treatment outcomes.
Label-free analysis:
PIMS® operates without the need for fluorescent or radioactive labels, preserving the native state of the biological sample. It examines protein–protein and protein–solvent interactions within complex, multicomponent solutions such as blood, tissues, and PBMCs.
Water molecule resonance as a probe:
When a drug engages its target, the resulting macromolecular conformational shift alters the water resonance). This modulation provides a measurable, specific fingerprint of the treatment’s effect on molecular architecture and associated signalling pathways.
Complementary integration with NPOT®:
In tandem with the Nematic Protein Organization Technic (NPOT®), PIMS® can map the spatial organization and functional networks of proteins. This combined approach is invaluable for deciphering the mechanisms behind drug response and identifying predictive biomarkers
Dynamic fingerprinting:
PIMS® records a baseline spectral profile of a patient’s biological sample, then measures the changes after introducing a drug or compound. The resulting spectrum reflects changes in macromolecular conformation and water molecule resonance, indicating the activation (or lack thereof) of specific pharmacological signalling pathways.
Mechanism in brief:
PIMS® is used ex vivo to classify patients as good, partial, or non-responders by challenging their samples with drugs or drug combinations (e.g. lead compound plus a marketed monoclonal antibody). This stratification ensures that the most effective therapeutic strategies are selected on a patient-by-patient basis.
PIMS® can distinguish between metastatic and non-metastatic patients by comparing the spectra generated with PIMS® with tumour biopsies
The technology not only predicts treatment efficacy but also guides the identification of molecular networks and biomarkers. This dual readout (macromolecular conformation and water resonance) paves the way for mechanistic insights into drug action and resistance.
The NIR approach allows for quick, non-destructive analysis without extensive sample preparation.
PIMS® delivers precise molecular fingerprints, enabling accurate patient stratification and predictive diagnostics.
By reflecting individual variations in macromolecular architecture, the technology supports personalized treatment strategies and biomarker discovery.
At Inoviem, our commitment to cutting-edge, label-free biophysical technologies like PIMS® is at the heart of advancing personalized medicine. By providing rapid, reliable insights into how patients respond to therapeutic interventions, PIMS® is transforming drug development and clinical diagnostics—ensuring that the right treatment is delivered to the right patient.
PIMS® has been applied to predict responses to vedolizumab therapy in patients with anti-TNF refractory IBD (including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis). Clinical studies have demonstrated an 89% positive predictive value and an 82% negative predictive value, while also highlighting specific biomarkers (e.g., ITGB7, ITGAV, PF4) associated with a positive therapeutic response.
