iBET participates in CARDIOPATCH project, funded by the EU Interreg Sudoe Programme. The project aims to develop an innovative strategy to regenerate damaged tissue after myocardial infarction.

The consortium will develop a patch of collagen fibres functionalised with stem cells to optimize its therapeutic benefit and regenerative ability. In addition, the project will develop a 3D device to enable patch implementation through less invasive methods, and a 3D system to streamline its production and transport.

iBET and Genibet Biopharmaceuticals will play a key role in the development of technologies and protocols for the production and characterisation of different types of cells and cell-based products for application in regenerative medicine. In the words of Paula Alves, CEO of iBET, “It is very rewarding to set up a network of excellence in the field of cardiac regenerative medicine. Regenerative medicine is an exciting field that will open doors to the development of more sustainable and more effective therapeutic solutions for cardiovascular disease."

In addition to these therapeutic solutions, the CARDIOPATCH project will create a “Network of Excellence” in R&D in the biomedical sector in South West Europe, with the purpose of extending industry 4.0 technologies into the healthcare sector.

With a total budget of 1.4 million euros, the CARDIOPATCH project – Network of Excellence for the development of Advanced Therapies of Myocardial Infarction treatment based on regenerative medicine and 3D printing – is a consortium of nine research institutes with expertise in cardiology, cell therapy, nanotechnology, 3D printing, bioengineering and technology transfer. 

The kick-off meeting marked the beginning of CARDIOPATCH and served as an opportunity to strengthen the connection between partners and to establish common goals to ensure project’s success from the start.