GLOWBRAIN

Combining Stem Cells and Biomaterials for Brain Repair - Unlocking the Potential of the Existing Brain Research through Innovative In Vivo Molecular Imaging

 Partecipanti

Mappa

 Word cloud

Esplora la "nuvola delle parole (Word Cloud) per avere un'idea di massima del progetto.

 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'The main aim of GlowBrain is to unlock the existing research potential of University of Zagreb School of Medicine and respond to an emerging need for combined stem cells and biomaterials applications in brain repair. The already existing platform for mouse brain research is currently involved in research of molecular mechanisms underlying brain damage and repair. It includes the expertise and equipment to assess the brain at system (behavioral analysis, neuroanatomy and neurodevelopment), cellular (microscopy and in vitro techniques) and molecular levels (molecular biology techniques). Through analysis of transgenic mouse models this is combined with competence to introduce the experimental brain damage in form of ischemic injury (MCAO), seizures or stereotaxic lesions. Here we propose an innovative upgrade of existing facilities to enable simultaneous application of stem cells and biomaterials with the goal to enhance beneficial effects of stem cell therapy. By extending the platform with components for in vivo molecular imaging using bioluminescence and magnetic resonance, the insight in the underlying molecular mechanisms of stem cells and biomaterials applications would be achieved. Innovative multimodal combination of bioluminescent imaging (BLI) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the upgraded platform would enable to follow in real time, in living animals the molecular events in the mouse brain and fine tune consequences and efficiency of stem cell therapies. Together with already existing excellence in neuroscience research, the upgrade would result in a novel and complementary asset to leading European capacities. Unlocking the research potential of University of Zagreb by assembling a unique platform at European Research Area level would have a high impact for the future cell therapies of the brain diseases. The leading edge research would boost innovations in regenerative medicine field and sustain the upgraded facility in the future.'

Descrizione progetto (Article)

Barriers to stem cell therapy include low survival and integration rate of cells. Innovative biomaterials that support formation of 3D cellular networks are required for applications in the brain.

Under the aegis of the http://glowbrain.hiim.hr/ (GLOWBRAIN) project, researchers will combine bioluminescent imaging (BLI) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to image the brain. They will develop and optimise stem cells and biomaterials applications to repair damages in the mouse brain occurring after a stroke.

Combining BLI and MRI will enable visualisation of the transplanted stem cells that are integrated within the mouse brain through markers such as luciferase and super paramagnetic particles.

Project members recruited seven experienced scientists skilled in stem cells, biomaterials and in vivo imaging. Besides two workshops, arrangements were made for these personnel to obtain necessary training at seven project partner organisations.

For in vivo imaging, researchers purchased a small animal MRI as well as a BLI system. The BLI system is already fully functional during the first phase of the project. The mouse facility was upgraded to maintain transgenic mice required for the study.

In parallel, GLOWBRAIN established an innovation office and employed an innovation manager. This helped facilitate collaborations with other universities and intellectual property experts.

Project objectives and activities have been widely disseminated through the project website and http://www.facebook.com/GlowBrainCroatia (Facebook profile), and via http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=glowbrain (YouTube videos). In addition, the team organised a regional network for regenerative medicine and stem cell therapies called REGMED, with experts from different but complementary disciplines participating.

GLOWBRAIN has a long way to go towards developing a fully functional platform for monitoring transplanted stem cells in a mouse model of stroke. Success could revolutionise brain research and ensure faster commercialisation of research results, placing the EU ahead in the regenerative medicine sector. This versatile platform could also be adapted to study neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease in the future.