A Case Study: Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease & 3DforScience:
Visualizing Complex Autoimmune Disorders Through High-Impact Medical Animation
Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, is dedicated to delivering life-changing therapies for patients living with rare and devastating conditions. To support this mission, Alexion partnered with 3DforScience to create two scientifically accurate, visually compelling animations explaining the mechanisms behind Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) and Myasthenia Gravis (MG).
The Vision:
Explaining Rare Diseases Clearly and Impactfully
For both NMOSD and MG, the goal was to translate complex immunological processes into intuitive visuals that healthcare professionals, caregivers, and patients could easily understand. Each animation highlights how autoantibodies and complement activation lead to tissue damage, driving home the need for breakthrough therapies.
1–10 per 100,000
Estimated global prevalence of NMOSD.
70%
Of NMOSD patients experience recurrent attacks without effective treatment.
20 in 100,000
Prevalence of Myasthenia Gravis worldwide.
A Tailored Scientific Message for a Global Audience
The NMOSD animation depicts how CD19+ plasma cells produce autoantibodies that bind to aquaporin-4 on astrocytes, activating the complement cascade and resulting in demyelination and neuronal damage.
The MG video illustrates how anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies bind to receptors, triggering the complement system and damaging the neuromuscular junction—leading to muscle weakness and fatigue.
A Tailored Scientific Message for a Global Audience
The NMOSD animation depicts how CD19+ plasma cells produce autoantibodies that bind to aquaporin-4 on astrocytes, activating the complement cascade and resulting in demyelination and neuronal damage.
The MG video illustrates how anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies bind to receptors, triggering the complement system and damaging the neuromuscular junction—leading to muscle weakness and fatigue.
KNOW-HOW: Scientific Accuracy in Every Frame
Our team worked closely with Alexion’s experts to ensure each cellular process, from antibody binding to MAC complex formation, was visualized with precision. Detailed molecular structures and dynamic flow scenes bring to life the invisible interactions driving these autoimmune conditions.
From concept to visualization
Starting with Alexion’s scientific data and storytelling goals, we developed detailed storyboards and 3D assets for both animations. By balancing biological accuracy with clear narrative flow, we transformed intricate immunological pathways into engaging visual tools.
Solutions applied
Hand-made conceptual styling
Modelling of illustrations and designs
3D scientific animations and recreation
Our Approach to Creating an Engaging Experience
Instead of static diagrams, the animations guide viewers through each step of disease progression, reinforcing understanding of how immune dysfunction leads to significant patient symptoms.
This approach supports medical education, advocacy efforts, and stakeholder engagement worldwide.
Our Approach to Creating an Engaging Experience
Instead of static diagrams, the animations guide viewers through each step of disease progression, reinforcing understanding of how immune dysfunction leads to significant patient symptoms.
This approach supports medical education, advocacy efforts, and stakeholder engagement worldwide.
Our workflow:
From concept to delivery
Each animation underwent multiple validation rounds with Alexion’s medical team to align with regulatory standards and scientific accuracy. Our iterative process ensured that the final visuals serve as reliable resources for clinician training, patient communication, and awareness campaigns.
The final outcome
Together with Alexion, we created high-impact visual content that demystifies two complex autoimmune diseases. These animations now support Alexion’s global mission to educate, inspire trust, and drive understanding of rare disease mechanisms—paving the way for innovative treatments and improved patient outcomes.
“By translating Alexion’s complex science into clear, vivid animations, we’ve helped bridge the gap between research and real-world understanding—empowering clinicians and patients alike.”
Alexion
Would you like to explore areas of cooperation?
We are proud partners of top healthcare Agencies globally. If you’re interested in a potential collaboration, let’s talk! Together, we can make great things happen!
Send us a message today.
Other case studies
Enhancing Blood Donation Training Through Virtual Reality
| NYBC
Recognizing the need for more engaging training, NYBC set out to reimagine how blood collection technicians learn critical procedures.
Restoring Circulation in Critical Care
Procizumab
4TEEN4 worked with us to create a high-quality 3D animation that clearly explains how Procizumab neutralizes DPP3 to preserve angiotensin and restore organ perfusion in life-threatening circulatory events.
Biomimetic Science Meets Sensorial Beauty
Collapeptyl™
Ashland collaborated with us to create a high-quality 3D mechanism-of-action video that brings the Collaverse™ to life.
AbbVie | Immersive 360° Oncohematology
| AbbVie
Working closely with AbbVie, we translated this story into a scientifically accurate and engaging script.
Bringing Skin Science to Life Through 3D Medical Animation
| Evonik
Evonik wanted to shift the narrative in skin care innovation by showing that skin is not just a barrier, but a living, sensing interface in constant dialogue with its environment.
Redefining Alzheimer’s Treatment Through Precision Medicine
| Anavex
We developed a high-quality 3D animation that effectively communicated the potential of Blarcamesine.
Bridging AI and Oncology
Owkin
Owkin, a pioneer in AI-driven medical research, is combining machine learning with biomedical innovation to accelerate drug discovery.
Crafting videos for clinical study patients |
JCR
At 3DforScience, we're proud to introduce the Ivy Brain Tumor Center, a nonprofit initiative that's making a difference in the world of brain tumor research.
Visualizing Next-Generation MS Treatment with 3D Animation
Neuraxpharm
Neuraxpharm set out to explain how BRIUMVI® targets B cells with precision, combining advanced glycoengineering and powerful immune activation to deliver effective and efficient multiple sclerosis therapy.
Visualizing Precision in Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
| ZuriMED
3DforScience was tasked with translating this detailed procedure into an animation that could guide orthopedic professionals through the FiberLocker system.
Bringing Non-Invasive Heart Health to Life with 3D Animation
| Flow Therapy
Flow Therapy wanted to show how EECP gently boosts blood flow, reduces heart strain, and activates natural healing — helping patients reclaim life beyond the limits of heart disease.
Crossing the Blood-Brain Barrier with JBC-AAV
JCR
JCR Pharmaceuticals partnered with 3DforScience to visualize JBC-AAV, a gene therapy platform using the J-Brain Cargo® tag to deliver therapeutic genes to the brain, showcasing a breakthrough in overcoming major medical barriers.
Defeating Cancer with Immersive Science
| Genetron Health
Genetron Health partnered with us to communicate their vision for early cancer detection. We turned their Visitor Center into a guided, culturally sensitive experience, utilizing 360° video and interactive 3D tools to clearly visualize the science of blood-based screening, molecular analysis, and biomarker shifts.
Brightening Science Made Visible
Neostrata
NeoStrata, part of the Johnson and Johnson group, worked with us to create a high-quality 3D mechanism of action video that reveals how Vitamin C and gluconolactone work together to improve uneven tone and dark spots.
Visualizing the Future of 3D Tumor Modeling
| Kiyatec
Kiyatec needed to communicate how its proprietary 3D tumor culture platforms mimic in vivo conditions more faithfully than traditional methods.
Visualizing Metabolic-Linked Cancer Treatment with Precision Animation
| Syndev
Our task was to translate this sophisticated dual-action mechanism into an animation that resonates with oncologists, researchers, and investors alike.
AI-Powered Insights in Breast Cancer Prognosis
Owkin |
Owkin’s RlapsRisk BC transforms digital pathology into actionable insights through AI. Our 3D animation visualizes how this technology predicts relapse risk in early breast cancer, making complex data intuitive and empowering precision oncology.
Visualizing a Breakthrough in Viral Immunotherapy
| Viromissile
The goal was to translate this advanced oncolytic virus platform into a clear, accessible story for scientists, investors, and the public.
Stress Disorder Education Revolution |
Grow
Discover how Grow redefines stress disorder education with VR and medical animation, enhancing patient experiences and understanding.
Bringing Targeted Alpha Therapy to Life Through 3D Medical Animation
| Oranomed
The challenge was to translate this complex science into an intuitive and compelling visual narrative that resonates with researchers, oncologists, and investors alike.
Transforming Psoriasis Treatment Through Immersive VR
Leopharma
This cutting-edge VR approach helps healthcare professionals and patients better understand the science behind Enstilar®.
360° VR Experience
| Bravecto
A global leader in veterinary medicines, sought to transform how they communicate the unique benefits of Bravecto® Injectable, a product offering one injection for a full year of flea and tick protection for dogs.
Highlight the potential of ONKOKINE molecule in the fight against cancer
NEX-I
ONCOKINE protein functions as a tumor marker and to illustrate the potential of its corresponding antibody for cancer treatment.
Harnessing Interactivity to Enhance Scientific Communication
Biogen
At 3DforScience, we're proud to introduce the Ivy Brain Tumor Center, a nonprofit initiative that's making a difference in the world of brain tumor research.
Crafting videos for clinical study patients |
Ivy Brain
At 3DforScience, we're proud to introduce the Ivy Brain Tumor Center, a nonprofit initiative that's making a difference in the world of brain tumor research.
Unveiling Insulin Pumps with 3D Animation|
Sonceboz
Interactive 3D animations designed for patients and healthcare professionals to understand insulin pumps clearly. Enhance training, education, and communication.
eLearning technology for Anti-Inflammatory Treatment |
Heel
Immersive Learning: Doctors Engage in Virtual Anti-Inflammatory Training through 3D Technologies.
3D Animation Video, regulating immune functions |
Debiopharm
An independent biopharmaceutical company with an ongoing commitment to develop tomorrow’s standard of care to cure cancer & infectious diseases and improve patient quality of life. On this occasion they wanted to show the functioning of the molecule Debio1562M through a video MoA that facilitates its understanding.
Unveiling Cellular Changes: 3D Animations for Chronic Diseases |
Ochre
See how 3D animations simplify complex cellular changes in chronic diseases. Improve patient understanding and communication with our engaging visuals.
Communicating Breakthrough Science for ADPKD Through Multi-Format Visual Storytelling
| Mironid
The challenge: communicate this intricate cellular mechanism in a clear, engaging way that resonates with scientists, clinicians, and investors alike.
Visualizing AI-Enabled Precision Cancer Care
| Artera
The goal was to show the power of this AI engine: how it learns visual patterns from millions of pathology image patches, combines them with patient variables, and generates a unique, reliable MMAI score.
Exploring AMD Through Virtual Reality
Roche
Roche partnered with 3DforScience to create Eye Travel, an immersive VR journey inside the human eye. This groundbreaking experience lets healthcare professionals explore the progression of AMD and the mechanism of action of faricimab—transforming complex ophthalmology science into an interactive, unforgettable adventure.
Transforming Ophthalmology Education Through AR & VR Immersion
| Bayer
The goal was to move beyond static presentations by creating an immersive journey that would allow ophthalmologists and specialists to “live” the visual impairments caused by DME and AMD.