Get to know our Workpackages

WP1

Development of the
3D-theramesh

Involved Partners: CNC, Black Drop, CSIC, IIT, SESCAM, UCLouvain

Led by Professor Lino Ferreira from Universidade de Coimbra (Portugal), the main goal of this work package is the design, fabrication and characterization of the 3D-theramesh to locally deliver therapeutics for SCI. This mesh will be then converted into a printable hydrogel formulation, with a major emphasis in the best mechanical properties. New therapeutic nanocarriers systems will be developed for the first line of treatment in the injury environment.

Lino Ferreira

WP2

Biocompatibility, biodegradability and functionality in vitro

Involved Partners: UCLouvain, SESCAM, CSIC, CNC, Black Drop, IIT

Led by Professor Anne des Rieux from the Université Catholique de Louvain (Belgium), the main goal of this work package is the in-vitro evaluation of the biocompatibility, biodegradability and functionality of the 3D-theramesh developed in WP1. This in-vitro performance will be tested with mammalian cells in culture. Atomic force microscopy and electrophysiology techniques will be used.

Anne des Rieux

WP3

Active implantable device for on-demand release

Involved Partners: IIT, CSIC, CNC, Black Drop, SESCAM, UCLouvain

Led by Professor Fabio Biscarini from the Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia (Italy), the main goal of this work package is the adaptation of the 3D-theramesh into a whole-organic device for on-demand release. Two generations of devices will be developed, with the final proof of on-demand release of therapeutics by specifically-driven stimuli in vitro.

Fabio Biscarini

WP4

Active 3D-theramesh
in vivo: Evaluation in paralyzed rats

Involved Partners: SESCAM, CSIC, UCLouvain, CNC, IIT, Black Drop

Led by Dr. Juliana M. Rosa from the Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos (SESCAM, Spain), the main goal of this work package is the in-vivo evaluation of the effects of the 3D-theramesh and motor training protocols independently applied in paralyzed rats. Biocompatibility and biodegradability of the 3D-theramesh will be first evaluated in subcutaneous pockets followed by examination at the injured spinal cord.

Juliana M. Rosa

WP5

Reversion of SCI impairments by multiscale actuation in paralyzed rats

Involved Partners: CSIC, SESCAM, CNC, IIT, UCLouvain, lack Drop

Led by Professor Ricardo García from the Institute of Materials Science in Madrid (CSIC, Spain), the main goal of this work package is the in-vivo demonstration of the therapeutic capabilities of the multiscale and multifaceted therapy. It will involve the identification of functional improvements by conventional immunofluorescence, atomic force microscopy, electrophysiology, and imaging tools.

Ricardo García

WP6

Dissemination, Exploitation, Research transfer into innovation

All partners involved …

Led by Dr. Katharina Schwaiger from acib (Austria), the main goal of this work package is the dissemination and exploitation of the project and its results including intellectual property. It will include the design and maintenance of the website, the creation of the logo, and the organization, participation and involvement in a diversity of dissemination and exploitation activities including outreach.

Katharina Schwaiger

WP7

Coordination and management

All partners involved …

Led by Dr. M. Concepción Serrano from the Institute of Materials Science in Madrid (CSIC, Spain), the main goal of this work package is the coordination and management of the project and mediation in effective partners’ relationships. It will focus on the elaboration and updating of all the documents that will serve to manage the project and its results and to support reporting to the European Innovation Council along its duration.

M. Concepción Serrano