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Nanbiosis

Prof. Pilar Marco takes helm of CIBER-BBN: Leading the future of Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine

Barcelona, June 21, 2024 – Prof. Pilar Marco has been appointed as the new head of the Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN) thematic area at the Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBER). This prestigious appointment was confirmed during the CIBER Governing Board meeting held on June 20, 2024. Prof. Marco succeeds Ramón Martínez, bringing a wealth of expertise and a distinguished track record in biomedical research for more than a decade.

Prof. Marco is a research professor at the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), specifically at the Institute of Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC) in Barcelona. Additionally, she leads the Nanobiotechnology for Diagnosis research group and is the Scientific Director of our Custom Antibody Service, the Unit 2 of NANBIOSIS, as well as the coordinator of the Nanomedicine Research Program at CIBER-BBN.

An expert in antibodies and immunoassays

Recognized as an international authority in antibody-based technologies and the development of immunoassays for diagnostic purposes, Prof. Marco’s impressive academic and research portfolio includes 225 published articles and the supervision of 32 doctoral theses. She has also served as Principal Investigator in 14 European projects and over 20 national projects.

Her contributions to scientific innovation are evident in her dedication to knowledge transfer. Prof. Marco holds 15 patents and has signed 36 contracts with various companies, six of which are for commercial exploitation. Her work aims to bridge the gap between research and practical applications, ultimately improving the quality of life in society.

A new chapter in scientific collaboration

In addition to her role at CIBER-BBN, Prof. Marco coordinates the Strategic Diagnostic Initiative of the PTI+ Global Health and serves on the Technical Committee of the National Center for Certification of Health Products. Her leadership and vision are expected to propel CIBER-BBN into new frontiers of research and development in bioengineering, biomaterials, and nanomedicine.

Pilar Marco, Fernando Artalejo and Didac Mauricio

Joining Prof. Marco in the new leadership appointments are Fernando Artalejo, who will head the CIBER for Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), and Didac Mauricio, who will lead the CIBER for Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Diseases (CIBERDEM). Together, these appointments mark a significant step forward in CIBER’s mission to advance biomedical research and improve public health.

Prof. Pilar Marco’s vision and expertise are set to drive CIBER-BBN’s mission forward, enhancing its contributions to scientific discovery and the development of cutting-edge biomedical technologies. Her leadership promises to strengthen collaborations and foster innovations that will benefit both the scientific community and society at large.

We congratulate Prof. Marco on her new role and look forward to the remarkable advancements that will undoubtedly emerge under her guidance.

What is NANBIOSIS?

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

Leading scientists

The main value of NANBIOSIS is our highly qualified and experienced academic scientists, working in public institutions, renowned universities and other research institutes.

Custom solutions

Designed for either scientific collaboration or the private industry, we adapt our services to your needs, filling the gaps and paving the way towards the next breakthrough.

Cutting-Edge facilities

Publicly funded, with the most advanced equipment, offering a wide variety of services from synthesis of nanoparticles and medical devices, including up to preclinical trials.

Standards of quality

Our services have standards of quality required in the pharmaceutical, biotech and medtech sectors, from Good Practices to ISO certifications.

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions with priority access, enter our Competitive Call here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

Cardiovascular disease and Computation: an innovative lecture by Prof. Shirley Jansen

Tomorrow, on the 30th of May, our Tissue & Scaffold Characterization Unit 13 organises the Conference “Understanding cardiovascular disease by means of Computation Fluid Dynamics” by Prof. Shirley Jansen.

The event will take place at 12:30 in the I3A Seminar Room, Block 5, 2nd floor of the R&D Building in Campus Rio Ebro of Universidad de Zaragoza.

Prof. Jansen is passionate about the importance of working alongside engineers to understand the mechanics behind many vascular pathologies such as aortic aneurysm, dissection, and peripheral arterial disease, and why close collaboration via a shared language of haemodynamics can shed light on risk prediction, inform patient specific intervention and optimise outcomes. Understanding of device failure mechanisms in pressurised circuits will inform innovation of next generation devices but the way in which we handle the use of assumptions in CFD in particular, is crucial to the engagement between vascular surgeons and bioengineers.

About the speaker

Professor Shirley Jansen

Prof. Shirley Jansen

Professor Shirley Jansen is Joint Program Head of Cardiovascular Science and Diabetes as well as Director of the Heart and Vascular Research Institute at the Perkins and has led her unit to great success in first in man, pharmacological and device related trials in vascular disease. She is also Head of Dept of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, a busy quaternary unit overseeing 900 in-patients per year. She was awarded PhD in 1999 and The Sustained Overall Clinical Excellence Award from Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in 2016.

She has run over 30 government and industry sponsored clinical trials, the majority as PI/site PI. She supervises six PhDs and four Masters and numerous other projects covering a wide range of vascular pathologies. Her main research interests since PhD are in the clinical management of carotid, peripheral vascular disease, diabetic foot disease and venous leg ulcers, as well as the interface with bioengineering and innovation.

Jansen has wide experience in all aspects of vascular, endovascular surgery, perioperative care and prevention and health outcomes. She has published over 60 research papers and five chapters, and given over 50 presentations at national and international meetings. She has received eight travelling fellowships in her career. She is also an inventor, and convenor of two national/international vascular surgical training workshops. Shirley is actively engaged in cross-disciplinary collaborations locally and internationally in the areas of imaging, treatment modalities and outcomes for vascular diseases.

What is NANBIOSIS?

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

Leading scientists

The main value of NANBIOSIS is our highly qualified and experienced academic scientists, working in public institutions, renowned universities and other research institutes.

Custom solutions

Designed for either scientific collaboration or the private industry, we adapt our services to your needs, filling the gaps and paving the way towards the next breakthrough.

Cutting-Edge facilities

Publicly funded, with the most advanced equipment, offering a wide variety of services from synthesis of nanoparticles and medical devices, including up to preclinical trials.

Standards of quality

Our services have standards of quality required in the pharmaceutical, biotech and medtech sectors, from Good Practices to ISO certifications.

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

Temperature-sensitive hydrogels: A pioneering therapeutic approach for ovarian cancer

A new project with the participation of NANBIOSIS Unit 20 pioneers thermosensitive hydrogels for localized ovarian cancer treatment, minimizing side effects and enhancing efficacy.

May 2024, VHIR/FVPR/CIBER-BBN (Barcelona). As the world recently commemorated Ovarian Cancer Day, from NANBIOSIS we proudly highlight the groundbreaking work of our collaborators in the fight against this deadly disease. Ovarian cancer stands as the seventh leading cause of cancer-related deaths, with Europe bearing the brunt of its impact, recording over 44,000 fatalities annually.

In a bid to revolutionize treatment paradigms and enhance patient outcomes, researchers at the Clinical Biochemistry, Drug Delivery and Therapy (CB-DDT) Group, in close collaboration with NANBIOSIS Unit 20, are spearheading an innovative project focused on intraperitoneal drug delivery for ovarian cancer.

Traditionally, ovarian cancer treatment has been marred by the limitations of systemic chemotherapy, often leading to severe toxicities and treatment resistance. To address these challenges, the team led by Dr. Diana Rafael has embarked on developing a novel therapeutic approach using thermosensitive hydrogels (HG) for sustained intraperitoneal drug release.

By utilizing temperature-sensitive hydrogels, our researchers can deliver chemotherapeutic agents directly to the abdominal cavity, minimizing systemic side effects and enhancing therapeutic efficacy.

As explained by Dr. Rafael, this project aims to provide a new, localized treatment strategy for ovarian cancer patients. In this regard, the group’s multidisciplinary expertise spans pharmaceutical technology, nanomedicine, and cancer biology. Thus, by utilizing temperature-sensitive hydrogels, our researchers can deliver chemotherapeutic agents directly to the abdominal cavity, minimizing systemic side effects and enhancing therapeutic efficacy.

About the project:

The two funding sources, aptly named SmartTheC and HydroTheC, are granted by the La Caixa Foundation and the European Commission, respectively. It focuses on the development of eco-friendly and biodegradable hydrogels capable of prolonged drug release, thereby reducing the need for repeated treatments and improving patient quality of life. These HG are liquid at room temperature, facilitating their administration, and then turn into a gel upon exposure to the body temperature.

One of the key innovations of this approach lies in the incorporation of nanoparticles within the hydrogel matrix, enabling a “multi-compartment” system capable of releasing different drugs at varying rates.

One of the key innovations of this approach lies in the incorporation of nanoparticles within the hydrogel matrix, enabling a “multi-compartment” system capable of releasing different drugs at varying rates. This versatility is crucial for personalized treatment regimens and overcoming drug resistance.

The aim is to significantly enhance the therapeutic window of drugs and improve patient survival. Moreover, the biodegradability and extended residence time of the formulation offer distinct advantages over existing treatment options, paving the way for easy translation to clinical application.

The project’s preclinical validation phase, which includes in vivo experiments utilizing advanced cancer models established by our Unit 20, is being conducted in close collaboration with specialist ovarian cancer physicians from HUVH, ensuring alignment with patient needs and clinical realities.

The culmination of these efforts promises not only improved outcomes for ovarian cancer patients but also significant reductions in healthcare costs associated with treatment. Finally, this approach could be easily adapted to many other existing treatments that require local administration thanks to its versatility and easy adaptation.

Funding of the project:

SmarTheC: “Eco-sustainable Smart Hydrogels for the Sustained Intraperitoneal Release of Chemotherapeutics as a Novel Local Therapy Approach for Advanced Ovarian Cancer” (143178), La Caixa Foundation (Starting on 31/12/2024), Principal Investigator: Diana Rafael

HydroTheC: Biodegradable and Eco-friendly Smart Hydrogels for the Sustained Intraperitoneal Release of Chemotherapeutics as a Novel Local Therapy Approach for Advanced Ovarian Cancer” (101107735), Global MSCA-PF Granted to: Diana Rafael, European Commission.

About NANBIOSIS:

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

2nd Open call 2024 for preferential access to the ICTS NANBIOSIS

NANBIOSIS opens in June the 2nd competitive open call 2024 for our “Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions” and services.

Our publicly funded facilities and internationally renowned scientist will help you design and test biomedical solutions to your heart’s content. We are open to all interested national and international users who may come either from the public or the private sector. You can apply to use our services in two modalities: under the “Competitive Open Access” (within two designated calls) or by “Access on Demand”, your choice.

To make that happen, at least 20% of the NANBIOSIS Units’ capacity is granted on the Competitive Open Access modality. The proposals granted under this modality will be prioritized according to criteria of scientific and technical quality and singularity. In addition, a 5% discount will be applied for those proposals that resort to at least one of our integrated services, the Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions.

NANBIOSIS is a research infrastructure for Biomedicine in which three cutting-edge public institutions collaborate forming a deeply interconnected laboratory network: CIBER-BBN, CCMIJU and IBIMA-Plataforma BIONAND. In addition, NANBIOSIS is part of the Spanish Map of ICTS (Spanish for “Scientific and Technical Unique Infrastructures”), approved by the Spanish Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades .

There are 2 calls per year for Competitive Open Access that allow the prioritization of the best proposals. Click here to apply.

The next call will open on June 1st. The applications can be submitted throughout the whole month (due date June 30th). Access application forms submitted after that date will be processed under the “Access on Demand” modality.

Proposals granted in the Competitive Open Access modality must meet, at least, one of the circumstances listed in the access application form (“order request“), in order to demonstrate their scientific and technical quality or singularity.

Thus, for example, applications related to R&D projects funded through national or European calls are eligible. In addition, the proposals are required to use one of the NANBIOSIS Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions”. That implies the interaction of at least two of our Units, which can be modified to your specific needs.

NANBIOSIS Cutting-edge Biomedical Solutions

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

Last seat: Our Training in Spectroscopy and MRI for animal testing applications is still open.

Do not miss the chance to join our hands-on XV Workshop of Theoretical-Practical Training in MRS / MRI, with specific application in laboratory animals

Our excellent teacher Dr. Silvia Lope will be at the helm in this practical workshop. And it provides all the required skills users need to operate our fantastic Biospec, available as a service in our Unit 25.

The registration period for the “XV Workshop of Theoretical-Practical Training in Spectroscopy and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRS / MRI): Application in Laboratory Animals” is still open until May the 17th, 2024. This workshop is organized by the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Service of the Autonomous University of Barcelona, and will take place from May 28 to 30, 2024.

The aim of this workshop is to serve as an introduction to the application of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technique in preclinical studies.

The aim of this workshop is to serve as an introduction to the application of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technique in preclinical studies. The fundamental theoretical concepts that allow understanding the operation of the technique will be explained, with special emphasis on practical application with small animals using our state of the art 7 Teslas Bruker Biospec spectrometer.

The workshop is aimed at students and researchers who want to get started in spectroscopy and magnetic resonance imaging techniques applied to laboratory animals.

How do I apply?

If you are interested, you can download the brochure and the registration form at https://tinyurl.com/XVpreclinicalMRIMRSworkshop. For registration, just submit the registration form back by e-mail to the following address: silvia.lope@uab.cat.

The number of participants is limited to 4 people, and there is one seat left. Do not miss this opportunity!

About NANBIOSIS:

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

New cathalitic therapy for destroying key molecules within tumor cells

The prestigious journal Nano Letters published the work led by NANBIOSIS researchers, affiliated with Unizar, INMA (CSIC-UNIZAR), CIBER–BBN, and IIS Aragón.

The successful development of this innovative treatment approach was possible through the efforts of our Unit 9, led by Prof. Santamaría and Dr. Hueso, both corresponding authors of the publication.

As recently announced by Universidad de Zaragoza (Unizar), a team led by NANBIOSIS researchers at the Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA, a joint institute of CSIC and UNIZAR) has discovered a way to artificially conduct a new chemical reaction, called transamination. This approach can act within cancer cells to destroy molecules vital for the development and growth of tumor cells. The prestigious journal Nano Letters have recently published this work, led by Unizar professors and researchers Javier Bonet–Aletá, José Luis Hueso, and Jesús Santamaría, also affiliated with NANBIOSIS, INMA (CSIC-UNIZAR), CIBER–BBN, and IIS Aragon.

The technique aims to replace current chemotherapy, carrying catalysts that either generate toxic molecules inside the tumor or eliminate molecules it needs to keep growing.

Catalytic therapy constitutes a new strategy in the fight against cancer, aiming to trigger harmful chemical reactions for the tumor. Ultimately, the goal is to replace current chemotherapy by carrying catalysts that either generate toxic molecules inside the tumor or eliminate molecules necessary for its proliferation.

Regarding eliminating key molecules, first published in 2015, catalysts targeted either glucose, an important energy source for cancer cells; or glutathione, an antioxidant that protects tumor cells from highly reactive radical species. The later is partly responsible for these cells’ resistance to chemotherapy treatments. Both glucose and glutathione can be eliminated through oxidation reactions. However, this is especially challenging to apply due to the scarcity of oxygen in the hypoxic tumor environment.

The publication:

This study holds special importance not only because it opens the field to new reactions of interest in oncology, but also because it does so in a process – transamination – that does not require oxygen to occur. This eliminates the main restriction of catalytic therapies. The reaction operates on amino acids, essential components that cells use to produce proteins, and also pyruvate, a small and abundant molecule involved in the main energy acquisition pathway in the cell. The reaction between them reduces the levels of amino acids and pyruvate in cancer cells, leading them to a critical state and halting their expansion and growth.

Graphical abstract of the publication. Read the full article in: Nano Lett. 2024, XXXX, XXX, XXX-XXX

During transamination, an amino group is exchanged between an amino acid and pyruvate, generating a substance that the cell cannot easily utilize. Our researchers demonstrated this by reacting pyruvate with various amino acids, such as glutamine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, or glutathione itself. However, transamination has one drawback: it is catalyzed by copper atoms, whose flow through the cell membrane under normal conditions is highly restricted. To overcome this limitation, researchers designed nanoparticles containing this metal, enhancing internalization into tumor cells. Once internalized, the nanoparticle dissolves, releasing copper atoms that act as catalysts in the transamination reaction.

In addition of Dr. José Luis Hueso, and Dr. Jesús Santamaría, other members of Unizar also participated, such as Dr. Javier Martin–Martin from the Department of Organic Chemistry and INMA, and Dr. Miguel Encinas–Giménez, Dr. Ana Martín–Pardillos, and Dr. Pilar Martín–Duque, who are also members of the Aragon Health Research Institute (IIS), as well as Dr. Juan Vicente Alegre Requena, a CSIC scientist at the Institute of Chemical Synthesis and Homogeneous Catalysis, ISQCH, a joint CSIC-UNIZAR institute.

References:

[1] Nanoparticle-Catalyzed Transamination under Tumor Microenvironment Conditions: A Novel Tool to Disrupt the Pool of Amino Acids and GSSG in Cancer Cells. Javier Bonet-Aleta, Juan Vicente Alegre-Requena, Javier Martin-Martin, Miguel Encinas-Gimenez, Ana Martín-Pardillos, Pilar Martín-Duque, Jose L. Hueso, and Jesús Santamaria
Nano Letters, 2024 doi: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.3c04947

About NANBIOSIS:

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

Protein-only Materials offer a new hope in colorectal cancer treatment

Breakthrough colorectal cancer treatment unveiled by NANBIOSIS Units promises enhanced precision & efficacy in targeted cancer therapies.

March 2024, UAB/Institut de Recerca Sant Pau/CIBER-BBN (Barcelona)

As we leave World Colorectal Cancer Day 2024 behind, marked on March 31st, there have been significant highlights in cancer treatment, a field in which targeted therapies are playing a crucial role.

In this context, researchers from the Nanobiotechnology team, at the Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina from Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, led by Prof. Antonio Villaverde, in collaboration with the Oncogenesis and Antitumor Drugs team led by Prof. Ramón Mangues at Institut de Recerca Sant Pau, have made a significant breakthrough in the treatment of colorectal cancer. Their innovative approach, facilitated by their respective Unit 1 and Unit 18 of NANBIOSIS, promises to revolutionize current treatment methodologies and improve patient outcomes.

“In a clinical context, the use of these materials in the treatment of colorectal cancer should greatly improve the drug’s efficacy and patient comfort while minimizing unwanted side effects.”

Prof. Antonio Villaverde, Strategy Director of Unit 1

“It is important to highlight that such accumulation is more effective than when the protein is administered into the bloodstream. This fact offers a new and unexpected way to ensure high local levels of the drug and better clinical efficacy, avoiding repeated intravenous administration regimens,” explains Prof. Villaverde. “In a clinical context, the use of these materials in the treatment of colorectal cancer should greatly improve the drug’s efficacy and patient comfort while minimizing unwanted side effects.”

The team’s groundbreaking research centers around the development of self-contained protein-only materials at the microscale, capable of delivering therapeutic polypeptides in a time-prolonged manner. These materials, resembling the organization of secretory granules within the human endocrine system, are engineered to release functional polypeptide nanoparticles. These nanoparticles can selectively target tumors and destroy specific types of cancer cells, offering a promising avenue for more effective and precise cancer treatment.

The publication:

Notably, the researchers thorougly explored the molecular structure and dynamics of the secretion process of these materials, both in vitro and in vivo. In preclinical trials using an animal model of colorectal cancer, the system demonstrated remarkable efficacy upon subcutaneous administration. This was thanks to the released protein nanoparticles accumulating efficiently in tumor tissues. Importantly, this accumulation was found to be more effective than traditional intravenous administration methods, offering a novel strategy to ensure high local drug levels while minimizing systemic side effects.

A) Diagram illustrating theprotein administration protocol in a colorectal cancer mouse model. B) Accumulation of fluorescence in the tumour at days 1 and 10 after the administration, in two alternative formats (“IN” and “MPs”). Research product of a collaboration between NANBIOSIS Unit 1 and Unit 18. For more information, check the full publication at Adv. Sci. 2024, 2309427.

Furthermore, several competitive research and technology transfer projects supported this research, as well as intramural CIBER-BBN projects. This further highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and funding initiatives in driving scientific progress.

The team’s work underscores the importance of continued investment in research and collaboration to tackle the challenges posed by colorectal cancer and other malignancies. As World Colorectal Cancer Day is observed globally, this breakthrough offers hope for a future where innovative treatments pave the way for improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life for cancer patients worldwide.

The successful development of this innovative treatment approach was possible through the collaborative efforts of two NANBIOSIS Units: the Protein Production Platform (Unit 1) and the Nanotoxicology Unit (Unit 18).

References:

[1] J. M. Sánchez, H. López-Laguna, E. Parladé, A. D. Somma, A. L. Livieri, P. Álamo, R. Mangues, U. Unzueta, A. Villaverde, E. Vázquez, Structural Stabilization of Clinically Oriented Oligomeric Proteins During their Transit through Synthetic Secretory Amyloids. Adv. Sci. 2024, 2309427. https://doi.org/10.1002/advs.202309427

About NANBIOSIS:

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

NANBIOSIS research infrastructure improved with the acquisition of new cutting-edge equipment

Strategic funding of 1,8M€ elevating Spanish research infrastructure to forge a path of innovation and resilience.

March 19th 2024, NANBIOSIS

As already announced at the end of last year, from NANBIOSIS we are poised for a groundbreaking leap forward thanks to a 1,800,000€ injection of European funding. This funding has recently materialized in a significant improvement and update of the equipment and services of NANBIOSIS Units.

The Spanish Government’s Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan (Plan de Recuperación, Transformación y Resiliencia – PRTR) stands as a beacon of hope amid the challenges brought forth by the COVID-19 crisis. This comprehensive roadmap not only charts a course for the modernization of the Spanish economy but also envisions a resilient and inclusive reconstruction post-pandemic.

In alignment with these objectives, the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation has announced substantial funding aimed at bolstering the Unique Scientific and Technical Infrastructures (ICTS) with a staggering amount granted to NANBIOSIS Units. This strategic investment serves as a testament to Spain’s commitment to fostering excellence in research and innovation, particularly in the realm of nanomedicine, biomaterials, and biomedical systems.

This initiative (…) has been allocated 1,800,000€ funding from the Next Generation EU funds, marking a pivotal moment in Spain’s scientific landscape.

One notable project, ICT2021-006987, spearheads the drive towards a new era of infrastructure designed to facilitate the production and preclinical characterization of advanced therapeutics and diagnostic tools. This initiative, championed by the CIBER node of NANBIOSIS, has been allocated 1,800,000€ funding from the Next Generation EU funds, marking a pivotal moment in Spain’s scientific landscape.

Epifluorescence microscope with inverted optics for morphological characterization of cell samples obtained by 3D Bioprinting technique, one the pieces of equipment recently acquired by Unit 10 with this funding.

The impact of this investment reverberates across various facets of NANBIOSIS’ operations, with specific allocations directed towards enhancing research capabilities in critical areas. Maintenance, improvement, and acquisition of cutting-edge equipment across multiple NANBIOSIS Units will enable advancements in hybridoma development, immunochemistry, high-performance liquid chromatography, fluorescence analysis, and more.

By aligning with international standards and best practices, NANBIOSIS strengthens its position as a hub of scientific excellence with global relevance.

Notably, the acquisition of a MicroCT system for NANBIOSIS U13 and an MRI equipment scanner for NANBIOSIS U26 underscores Spain’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation in the biomedical field. These state-of-the-art instruments not only empower researchers with unprecedented capabilities but also pave the way for groundbreaking discoveries in areas such as tissue engineering, drug development, and precision medicine. In addition, by aligning with international standards and best practices, NANBIOSIS strengthens its position as a hub of scientific excellence with global relevance.

To see the full list of equipment and how the aforementioned funding has been allocated among our Units, visit here.

Looking ahead, the infusion of funds into NANBIOSIS projects represents just the beginning of a transformative journey towards a more resilient and innovative Spain.

In conclusion, the support extended to NANBIOSIS through the Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan heralds a new era of possibilities for Spanish research and innovation. By investing in cutting-edge infrastructure and research capabilities, Spain reaffirms its commitment to shaping a brighter future for generations to come.

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About NANBIOSIS:

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

Workshop of the Health Innovation Group of MATERPLAT

Discover cutting-edge technologies in tissue engineering, drug delivery systems, and biodegradable implants.

March13th 2024, online event

From NANBIOSIS we are pleased to announce the Presentation Day of Health Technologies by the MATERPLAT Health Innovation Group, which will take place on March 13th at 11:00 a.m. in an online format.

During this event, cutting-edge technologies being developed by MATERPLAT members in these three areas will be presented:
* Gels as scaffolds for tissue engineering.
* Biomimetic and/or biointeractive systems for controlled release of drugs or bioactive molecules.
* Biodegradable implants adapted to tissue and bone growth.

The objective of the event is to showcase these new technologies and foster collaboration among MATERPLAT members. Additionally, Viscofan company will participate, presenting its R&D priorities aligned with this theme, and Elisa Checa, Coordinator of NANBIOSIS, will inform us about the main services offered by this ICTS, which are useful for MATERPLAT members.

Elisa Checa, Coordinator of NANBIOSIS, will inform about the main services offered by our ICTS, which are useful for MATERPLAT members.

More specifically, she will talk about about the techological offer of NANBIOSIS, its implication in the private industry, and will also showcase some of the fruitful collaborations that NANBIOSIS had with several companies.

You can find more information about this online event here.

About NANBIOSIS:

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

The revolutionary path of research in NANBIOSIS and advice on Woman’s Day 2024

Our interview series delve into the journeys of 7 female researchers, their challenges, and the call for gender equality in science, inspiring the next generation.

March 8th 2024, NANBIOSIS (Spain)

Kicking off on 11F “International Day of Women and Girls in Science” 2024, and spanning all the way until Woman’s Day 2024, our interview series has aimed to highlight the life, career and opinions of some of the brilliant minds within our network. Today is time to wrap it up, and for this reason we present you a summary of each of them and a chance to take a deeper look.

In these series we delved into the remarkable journeys, research endeavors, and challenges faced by these exceptional women in their pursuit of scientific excellence. From unraveling the mysteries of nanotechnology to pioneering advancements in biosciences, each researcher’s story resonates with perseverance, resilience, and a fervent commitment to breaking barriers. With no doubt their collective message resonates loudly: a call to inspire and empower the next generation of aspiring researchers, regardless of gender, to embark on their own transformative journeys in the world of science and innovation, as well as speaking out on the issues that female researchers still encounter today.

Anna Aviñó speaks about her journey as a researcher and her captivating oligonucleotides.

“Oligonucleotides (…) are recently being approved as new advanced gene therapies for many diseases, including rare and cardiovascular diseases.”

—Dr. Anna Aviñó, scientific coordinator of Unit 29.

Our leading chemist, specialized in nucleic acid chemistry, was the first interview published in these series. She offered us insights into her current projects focused on synthetic and structural studies of oligonucleotides. With a deep understanding of their applications in gene therapies and biosensors, Dr. Aviñó highlighted her contributions to the field and addressed challenges faced as a woman scientist.

Through her expertise and dedication, she advocates for gender equality in science, emphasizing the importance of unbiased education and empowering young women to pursue careers in research.

You can read the full interview here.

Dr. Martín tells us about her innovations in cancer treatment with nanoparticles.

“There are challenging moments during a scientific career (…), but in the end, persistence pays off.”

—Dr. Ana Martín, collaborator scientist in Unit 9.

Ana has a multifaceted background spanning Veterinary Medicine, Biochemistry, and a Ph.D. And in this second part of our series she welcomed us into a world of scientific inquiry and innovation. In this interview, Ana shared her pioneering work in cancer research, utilizing nanoparticles for anti-tumor treatments. Ana also reflected on gender equality in science, the challenges of balancing motherhood with a scientific career, and her aspirations for a more inclusive scientific community.

You can read the full interview here.

Prof. Peña gave us her insightful point of view in overcoming challenges, embracing passion, and cultivating collaborative success towards career estabilization.

“The most important thing in your professional career is to dedicate yourself to something you love (…) that’s incredibly important from a professional point of view.”

—Prof. Estefanía Peña, Scientific Coordinator of Unit 13.

In a captivating interview, Professor Estefanía Peña shared her insights on overcoming challenges, nurturing passion, and fostering collaborative success in achieving career stability. Amidst the bustling R&D environment, Professor Peña’s laboratory serves as a beacon of innovation and determination. With enthusiasm and warmth, she discussed her journey in computational modeling and biomedical engineering, highlighting her experiences, hurdles, and victories. Professor Peña’s story resonates as a testament to perseverance and dedication, offering valuable advice to aspiring researchers on following their passions.

You can read the full interview here.

Our expert in nanocarriers talks about her journey from biotechnology to cancer therapy, an example of passion and perseverance in science.

“I am fortunate to be able to devote myself to something I am passionate about. Research is something I enjoy every day.”

—Dr. María Sancho, Researcher at Unit 9.

Dr. Sancho, our expert in nanocarriers and cancer therapy, shared with us her inspiring journey from biotechnology to groundbreaking research. Set in Zaragoza, Spain, the interview highlighted Maria’s passion and perseverance in pursuing scientific excellence. With warmth and enthusiasm, she discussed her innovative work in developing nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery in cancer treatment. Maria’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring scientists, showcasing the transformative power of dedication and curiosity in the pursuit of scientific advancement.

You can read the full interview here.

Dr. Vílchez, our esteemed colloidal chemistry researcher, discusses her focus on water-in-water emulsions and microcoacervates. She highlights gender biases in science and advocates for inclusivity and recognition of women’s contributions.

“I would advise (young women) to pursue their dreams, to show others what they are capable of, and not to let themselves be underestimated.”

—Dr. Susana Vílchez, technical and quality manager of Unit 12.

Dr. Vílchez offered a profound insight into her research endeavors and career trajectory. Specializing in the characterization of colloidal systems such as micelles, vesicles, emulsions, and more, her current focus lies on the intriguing realm of water-in-water emulsions and the formation of microcoacervates, serving as a model for membraneless organelles (MLO) by introducing DNA into these emulsions. During the interview, Dr. Vílchez also shed light on the gender biases prevalent in her field and offered invaluable perspectives on fostering gender equality in science. Through her experiences and unwavering dedication, she inspires young women to pursue their scientific aspirations while advocating for broader inclusivity and recognition of women’s contributions in shaping the scientific landscape.

You can read the full interview here.

Dr. Mincholé discusses cardiac risk assessment, gender challenges in science, and the transformative potential of Digital Twins in healthcare research.

“(I) design and work on a research line that combines computational models with cardiac signals and images. This was done with the aim of stratifying arrhythmic risk and understanding its mechanisms.”

—Dr. Ana Mincholé, researcher at Unit 27.

In this part 6 of our interview series, Dr. Ana Mincholé discussed her groundbreaking work in cardiac risk assessment, gender challenges in science, and the transformative potential of Digital Twins in healthcare research. Dr. Mincholé’s insights offered a glimpse into her innovative approach to integrating computational models with clinical data to advance cardiac care. Her passion for science and dedication to promoting diversity in STEM shine through, underscoring the invaluable contributions of women in the field.

You can read the full interview here.

As a bosus, we have recently published the last of our interviews in our YouTube channel.

In this part VII, we had the pleasure to interview Dr. Eli Prats, a brilliant researches from Unit 8 and a fantastic science communicator. Watch it full here:

About NANBIOSIS:

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

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