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Resolution of the 1st competitive call of 2024 for access to NANBIOSIS

NANBIOSIS is a Research Infrastructure for Biomedicine made up of the Platforms of the Center for Centro de Ivesntigación Biomedica en Red (CIBER- in the area of Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine -CIBER-BBN), the Preclinical Infrastructure and the Development of Minimally Invasive Technologies, of the Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Center (CCMIJU) and the Nanoimaging unit of the Biomedical Research Institute of Malaga-Nanomedicine Platform (IBIMA-BIONAND Platform).

NANBIOSIS as part of the Spanish Map of ICTS (an acronym for “Scientific and Technical Unique Infrastructures” in Spanish), approved by the Ministry of Science and Innovation, is open to all interested national and international users who may come either from the public or the private sector, and who can apply for access under the “Competitive Open Access” or “Access on Demand” modalities.

The 20% of the NANBIOSIS Units’ capacity is granted on the Competitive Open Access modality and will be prioritized according to scientific and technical quality and singularity of the applictions.

Consult the Resolution and details here

Related News:

1st Open call 2024 for preferential access to the ICTS NANBIOSIS
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New immunization research for SARS-CoV-2 with the collaboration of NANBIOSIS

This novel immunization platform, recently published in ACS, triggers potent antivirus response, promising efficient and cost-effective vaccination.

March 2024, UAB/Vall d’Hebron Research Institute/CIBER-BBN (Barcelona)

The battle against infectious diseases demands innovative solutions. The world is especially aware of this fact after facing threats such as the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. In a very recent publication in ACS Materials Letters, researchers from the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) and Hospital de Sant Pau, both within the CIBER-BBN, have achieved a significant milestone in vaccine development. Their study, conducted in partnership with international teams as well as NANBIOSIS, has introduced a novel immunization approach utilizing synthetic protein secretory granules.

These protein materials, developed by the team and highlighted in the study, exhibit endocrine-like functionalities tailored for the sustained release of protein drugs in oncology. At the microscale, these self-organized, self-contained protein granules undergo a spontaneous disintegration process associated with secretion, releasing their protein building blocks under physiological conditions. This technology, developed in collaboration with NANBIOSIS units, particularly the Protein Production Platform (Unit 1) and Nanotoxicology (Unit 18), holds promise beyond oncology, extending to various biomedical applications.

A promising solution to address not only existing infectious diseases but also future emerging threats.

The ACS publication:

In their work published last February 2024 [1], the researchers explored the potential of these synthetic protein secretory granules as an antigen delivery system for SARS-CoV-2. Thus, by utilizing a recombinant form of the virus’s receptor-binding domain, they investigated its efficacy in inducing neutralizing antibody responses in mice. Notably, the granules were administered without adjuvants, demonstrating their ability to trigger potent antivirus neutralizing responses.

Graphical abstract of the ACS Materials Letters paper, product of a collaboration with NANBIOSIS Unit 1 and Unit 18. ACS Materials Lett. 2024, 6, 3, 954-962.

The implications of this study are profound. Beyond the immediate context of COVID-19, this innovative immunization platform opens doors to more efficient vaccine delivery methods. By reducing dosage, costs, and the complexity of vaccination regimens, it presents a promising solution to address not only existing infectious diseases but also future emerging threats.

The collaborative nature of this research underscores the importance of synergistic partnerships. Alongside local institutions such as CIBER-BBN, ICREA, Institut de Recerca from Hospital Vall d’Hebró, and Hospital de Sant Pau, international collaboration with the University of São Paulo in Brazil has enriched the study’s scope and insights.

Funding for this groundbreaking research was provided by AGAUR through project 2020PANDE00003, and by CIBER-BBN through Intramural Projects NANOSARS and NANOREMOTE. Such support highlights the societal and scientific significance of this endeavor, emphasizing its potential to shape the future of vaccination strategies.

This publication marks a significant step forward in the fight against infectious diseases, showcasing the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and driving us towards a safer, healthier future. One in which NANBIOSIS will certainly contribute with the undisputable expertise of its researchers.

References:

[1] Zinc-Assisted Microscale Granules Made of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Trigger Neutralizing, Antivirus Antibody Responses. Marianna T. P. Favaro, Patricia Alamo, Nerea Roher, Miguel Chillon, Jara Lascorz, Merce Márquez, José Luis Corchero, Rosa Mendoza, Carlos Martínez-Torró, Neus Ferrer-Miralles, Luis C. S. Ferreira, Ramón Mangues, Esther Vázquez, Eloi Parladé, and Antonio Villaverde. ACS Materials Lett. 2024, 6, 3, 954–962. February 14, 2024 https://doi.org/10.1021/acsmaterialslett.3c01643

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

Women in NANBIOSIS part 6: A conversation with Ana Mincholé on unlocking the heart’s secrets

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

This is part of a series of interviews to several female researchers within the context of International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024 and Woman’s Day 2024. For more interviews, visit our news section here.

March 2024, I3A-Unizar, Zaragoza (Spain)

The meeting room of the High Performance Computing cluster is a comfortable place. A whiteboard full of diagrams occupies a good portion of one of the side walls, creating a welcoming atmosphere where complex concepts become accessible. In stark contrast, a long table is presided over by a large screen and a video call system, making it clear that the boundaries of this place extend beyond its modest size.

The meeting has just ended. It has been intense. In it, the members of NANBIOSIS Unit 27 have given us a comprehensive update on their work. Although our background is more focused on the biomedical aspect, the explanation has been so didactic that we have ended up feeling like part of something much, much larger. Theirs is a work full of versatility and possibilities, only limited by the immense computing power of their machines and the indisputable brilliance of their staff.

Ana Mincholé, one of the team members, waits for the interview to begin. She has already expressed her nervousness to me but, without intending to question her word, I believe she underestimates herself. She was able to open our eyes during that complex meeting, along with the rest of the team, allowing an audience with little computational background to understand the endless possibilities of their equipment. This is a piece of cake for her.

The interview begins.

What motivated you to choose a career in science?

“I’m not sure if science chose me, or if humanities rejected me. I’ve always found physics and mathematics much more entertaining than humanities subjects.”

Interesting… Usually children tend to think that mathematics is very difficult, that physics is very boring… etc.

“It’s a bit strange. I felt more creative solving problems and looking for different ways to solve them, rather than in humanities subjects that I… um (laughs), when I thought I had done something great, they would tell me that… well, that it wasn’t (laughs again). I always knew that I was more into science than humanities disciplines. I liked it more.”

From the beginning, you felt that what they were teaching you in mathematics and physics was more natural for you.

“Yes, the typical problems such as ‘a train leaves from somewhere at such a speed of…’, I found them much more entertaining.”

Could you share with us a little about your research area and the projects you are currently working on?

“In general, my research focuses on the assessment of sudden cardiac death risk in patients with cardiovascular diseases. We work with patients who have suffered heart attacks, cardiomyopathies (heart defects), or patients with bradycardia who need pacemakers. We evaluate the risks using the electrocardiogram, which measures the electrical activity of the heart, and in my case, also through computational models. These are virtual replicas of a patient’s heart that include all their clinical information, and you can evaluate them under different scenarios and see how they respond.”

Does this have to do with the ‘Digital Twins’? That is, replicating on a computer what happens to a person and seeing how the conditions you apply affect them.

“Yes, that’s it. In the case of the heart, for example, we can emulate cardiac anatomy through magnetic resonance images, then you can include fibrotic areas, infarcted areas, electrical dynamics… and with all this, you can simulate the electrical activity of a heart.”

So, not only can you mimic a healthy heart, but also a diseased one.

“That’s right. In hearts, there are always some areas that activate spontaneously. Normally this poses no danger, but in those hearts that already have some arrhythmogenic substrate, meaning that they have some type of previous pathology such as infarcted or fibrotic areas, those activations can cause an arrhythmia.”

What have been the greatest challenges you have faced as a woman in the field of scientific research?

“What a complicated question! There are so many challenges you face simply as a researcher… Perhaps more as a woman? I could highlight that I am a mother of two children, and research is always something that is constantly moving. Facing maternity, personally, I had a lot of plans and I told myself that I wouldn’t leave anything behind. I believed that, as soon as I felt better, I would start doing things, reading articles… but life with a newborn is what it is, and in the end, you don’t do it. And you have that fear and you start to wonder things such as ‘What happened during all this time?’, ‘Will I be able to catch up?’. “

So, I understand that you think the measures that are already in place are insufficient.

“Of course. The thing is research never stops. Science keeps advancing, with or without you. And although in the end it’s not that big of a deal, it’s a feeling you constantly have. Research is a bit strange: on one hand, you have a lot of flexibility, but at the same time, you never really disconnect. Deadlines come, and if you have to work on the weekend, you do it. Or maybe there is that Tuesday in which nothing has come out right, and at night you keep thinking about why the experiment you did in the morning didn’t work out. You keep coming up with ideas, and never really stop thinking about it.”

It is interesting what you’re saying because that applies to a lot of research fields. One might think that in the case of in silico experiments it would not be as bad as, for example, people working with animal models.

“Well, in our field of in silico experiments, you always encounter an error right on Friday before leaving work (laughs). Although during my master’s, I worked on a more experimental project, and it’s true that it’s a whole different level: If something doesn’t work out, you have to wait until it finishes, and I think in that sense, it’s much more demanding.”

Have you experienced any kind of gender bias or added difficulty in your scientific career? How have you addressed this situation?

“I feel like I haven’t faced a significant bias because of being a woman. Also, I’ve felt supported in all the research groups I’ve been part of. It’s true that in some fields, certain attitudes like paternalism and condescension arise because of being young and a woman. But young people stop being young… and women never stop being women (laughs). In those cases, you have to demonstrate that you know what you know, which adds pressure.”

There are fields and careers where there are many more women than men. This is the case for the more ‘bio’ careers. How do you see parity in your field?

“In my field, there’s quite a gender parity. Moreover, in all the groups I’ve worked with, there’s been a fair balance between men and women. I won’t deny that the further you advance in the research career, the more gender bias there is. Generally, there are more men in leadership positions than women, and women tend to have a harder time too. In my case, I haven’t personally experienced any gender bias. I’m lucky to be able to collaborate with people who add value. And with those who don’t, there’s no need for us to collaborate.”

How do you think these barriers can be overcome?

“Visibility. It has worked in other areas. I, being a bit older, remember not long ago when we had a female Minister of Defense, and there were those who were shocked. And nowadays, we don’t give it importance anymore. The visibility of women in science is constantly increasing. An example is the researcher behind the Oxford/Astra Zeneca COVID vaccine, whose presence in the media was quite prominent. We see it more and more often.”

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in science?

“I would tell them to go for it, that it’s a very rewarding career with plenty of opportunities. Sometimes, I think there’s a lack of female role models in science and also in other sectors. This is because even when there’s a mixed team working behind the scenes, the predominant presence of male figures gives a biased picture. And I believe it’s important to convey that science isn’t just for men.”

“(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.

Have you had any ‘Eureka’ moments in your career? What do you consider to be your greatest achievement or contribution in your field on a professional or personal level?

“Luckily in research, you have quite a few ‘Eureka’ moments. And thank goodness for that! Because there are also many frustrating moments that require a lot of effort and work. Thus when something finally works out, it’s very satisfying. But you have to constantly deal with ups and downs.

As for my greatest achievements, at the end of my PhD, we managed to develop a novel biomarker that was closely related to arrhythmic risk. That was a real high. Something more recent could be to 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. I’m not sure if I would define it as an achievement, but it’s a line of work that I’m particularly proud of.”

Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years? And where do you see this technology?

“In the future, I imagine Digital Twins technology being more integrated into clinical practice, with tangible benefits for patients. I think, at the moment, it’s more used at the research level and needs better explanation to understand its potential. But I’m convinced that this technology will be very useful in clinical settings, and I would like to be present when that happens.

Digital Twins of the heart are detailed virtual replicas that incorporate clinical information and specific measurements from each patient in addition to how the heart functions. They are very self-explanatory, and they answer the question of ‘why’ something happens, providing possible explanations for what is going on. Although these models are very descriptive, I don’t see them as incompatible with other types of models, such as artificial intelligence-based solely on data.

In the case of Digital Twins, behaviors and dynamics are introduced, making them much more explanatory. Furthermore, they are multiscale models that cover everything from the cellular level to propagation through cardiac tissue and the torso, even simulating the patient’s electrocardiogram. These multiscale models allow for personalized therapies and specific assessment of arrhythmic risk for each individual.”

How do you think we can encourage more women and girls to participate in science?

“I have participated in initiatives that are fantastic for explaining different professional experiences to people who have to choose a career. I also believe that we need to give visibility to science; not only from the perspective of research, but by showing all the possibilities that pursuing a career in science offers. I think, in the end, one has to choose the career they like the most, and then they can always redirect their decisions to work in what motivates them at each stage of life. The important thing is to decide to do things that fulfill you, motivate you, and do them well.

For example, I studied Physics and never imagined doing a PhD. Then, I went on Erasmus, ended up doing a master’s, and during the master’s thesis project, I discovered that biomedical research fascinated me and fulfilled me. So, I ended up doing a PhD. Life takes you places, and the important thing is to do things that bring you fulfillment and that you enjoy.”

Thank you very much Ana for your time.

“Thanks a lot, to you.”

For more interviews like this, visit our news section here.

Additional information:

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

Women in NANBIOSIS part 5: Susana Vílchez and her insights on water-in-water emulsions and gender equality in Science

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.

This is part of a series of interviews to several female researchers within the context of International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024 and Woman’s Day 2024. For more interviews, visit our news section here.

March 2024, IQAC-CSIC, Barcelona (Spain)

Dr. Susana Vílchez, an esteemed researcher in colloidal chemistry, and the technical and quality manager of Unit 12 of NANBIOSIS, offers 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. As we delve into her motivations, achievements, and challenges within the scientific domain, Dr. Vílchez sheds light on the gender biases prevalent in her field and offers 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.

Could you share with us a bit about your research area and the projects you are currently working on?

“My research area is colloidal chemistry, specifically the characterization of colloidal systems such as micelles, vesicles, emulsions, gels, liquid crystals, etc. One of the projects I’m working on involves water-in-water emulsions and the formation of microcoacervates by adding DNA to these emulsions. These microcoacervates can be used as a model for so-called membraneless organelles (MLO).”

What motivated you to choose a career in research?

“Since I was little, I’ve always liked knowing the reason behind things. I remember I really enjoyed a series of cartoons that dealt with the human body, as well as other TV shows like ‘El hombre y la Tierra’  (The Man and the Earth) and ‘El mundo submarino’ (The Underwater World).”

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement or contribution in your field?

“I have contributed to the training of undergraduate and master’s degree students. I have tried to help them see their potential to develop as future scientists.”

Have you experienced any gender bias or added difficulties in your scientific career? How have you addressed this situation?

“Within my area of research, there has been more support for the scientific careers of men than women. Men are attributed greater capability while women are seen as putting in more effort. To address this situation, I have tried to educate myself in areas that help me better develop my work, such as improving my communication skills, learning to manage stress, and becoming more resilient.”

How do you think gender stereotypes in the scientific field can be overcome?

“To overcome gender stereotypes in the scientific field, I believe we should approach the issue as a whole, from all sides. Firstly, we should strive to eliminate bias in education, both at the family level and in primary and secondary education. Secondly, we should avoid perpetuating gender stereotypes through media, social networks, video games, etc.”

What changes would you like to see in the scientific world to promote gender equality?

“I would like to see more support for women’s scientific careers. Despite policies aimed at reducing inequalities between men and women in the scientific world, men still predominantly occupy leadership positions. I would like to see greater inclusion of women to motivate them to pursue their scientific careers.”

“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.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering pursuing a career in science?

“I would advise them to pursue their dreams, to show others what they are capable of, and not to let themselves be underestimated. Our goals and purpose in life can be achieved with perseverance and effort.”

How do you think we can encourage more women and girls to participate in science?

“By promoting awareness in schools and high schools about the importance of science for society. I would also advocate for more scientific outreach programs in the media, television, radio, etc. Additionally, I believe it’s crucial to highlight the contributions of women in science, providing girls with female role models in the scientific world.”

For more interviews like this, visit our news section here.

Additional information:

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

U16-S09. Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy (KPFM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)

Electrical properties of solid surfaces using Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy (KPFM) and mechanical and topographical quantification using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)

The AFM Dimension Icon-PT has a microscopy method that allows to obtain the electrical properties of the surface of a material in air or liquid. In addition, the mechanical and viscoelastic properties of these surfaces can be determined and their morphology and topography can be studied qualitatively and quantitatively through images and 3D roughness parameters. The measuring range of this equipment reaches tenths of nanometres in height and hundreds of nanometres in spacing.

Customer benefits

The service will be provided by specialists in characterisation of materials in micro-nanoscopic dimensions.
The service works in accordance with ISO, ASTM, ASME and EUR standards. In addition, it can also provide detailed reports according to the needs of the study.

Target customer

The service can meet the needs of companies by providing support for their ISO, ASTM, ASME and EUR controls. In addition, it can also service research groups with detailed reports according to the needs of the study.

Additional information

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Reaching for the unreachable: New efforts to treat Lysosomal Storage Diseases

NANBIOSIS researchers pioneer novel treatments for Lysosomal Storage Diseases utilizing extracellular vesicles and liposomes, offering hope to patients.

1 March 2024, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute/ICMAB-CSIC (Barcelona)

Lysosomal Storage Diseases (LSDs) encompass a group of rare disorders caused by mutations in lysosomal proteins. These mutations can lead to dysfunctional proteins responsible for breaking down cellular materials, resulting in the accumulation of deposits. Such accumulations can manifest in various neurological symptoms, ranging from progressive neurodegeneration to severe cognitive impairment. Often emerging in childhood, LSDs tragically culminate in premature death for many patients.

Currently, up to 14 subtypes of LSDs can be treated using Enzyme Replacement Therapy (ERT). This therapy involves repeated intravenous administrations of non-mutated proteins to replace the dysfunctional protein that the patient naturally produces. However, this treatment modality is effective only for diseases caused by enzyme mutations. Moreover, intravenously administered enzymes often fail to reach the brain, leaving patients with neurological manifestations of LSDs untreated.

In response to this, the Clinical Biochemistry, Drug Delivery & Therapy (CB-DDT) group at VHIR (in which the Unit 20 of NANBIOSIS is integrated) is playing a pivotal role in acknowledging this issue. Our researchers are pioneering the use of Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) to deliver functional lysosomal proteins to affected cells and organs. EVs, which are tiny particles naturally utilized by cells for intercellular communication, offer a promising avenue as drug delivery systems. The project, which will culminate this year 2024, aims to engineer EVs for enhanced protein delivery and selectivity. This potentially addresses LSDs with a neurological manifestation, and allows to more effectively reach key affected organs, like in the case of heart and kidneys in Fabry disease [1]. Moreover, this technique could also set the stage for treatments aiming to address LSDs caused by transporter deficiencies, another remaining challenge of these dreaded genetic conditions.

The results of this fruitful collaboration between Units 6 and 20 have derived in the generation of our “Enzyme-loaded Nanovesicles” service, one of the flagship Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions of NANBIOSIS.

The role of liposomes:

Additionally, the CB-DDT group is collaborating with the NANOMOL group at ICMAB, home of NANBIOSIS Unit 6. Thanks to this collaboration, the researchers managed to explore the use of liposomes, a type of synthetic nanoparticle, as a targeted therapeutic vehicle to enhance ERT effectiveness.

The results of this fruitful collaboration between Units 6 and 20 have derived in the generation of our “Enzyme-loaded Nanovesicles” service, one of the flagship Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions of NANBIOSIS. This allows our clients to precisely load enzymes into nanovesicles, which can be applied in targeted therapies for various disorders. This service includes direct applications in many rare diseases, but it can be expanded to any application that requires a well-defined nanovesicle. You can check more information about this Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solution here.

The ongoing research and multiple collaborations hold promise not only for improving current therapies but also for expanding treatment options for LSD patients. This could potentially offer hope where there was previously none. As the collaboration between VHIR and ICMAB continues to yield groundbreaking insights, the future of LSD treatment appears increasingly optimistic.

This article is in the context of Rare Disease Day 2024. To stay up to date, visit our news section here.

References:

[1] Seras-Franzoso J, Díaz-Riascos ZV, Corchero JL, González P, García-Aranda N, Mandaña M, Riera R, Boullosa A, Mancilla S, Grayston A, Moltó-Abad M, Garcia-Fruitós E, Mendoza R, Pintos-Morell G, Albertazzi L, Rosell A, Casas J, Villaverde A, Schwartz S Jr, Abasolo I. Extracellular vesicles from recombinant cell factories improve the activity and efficacy of enzymes defective in lysosomal storage disorders. J Extracell Vesicles. 2021 Mar;10(5):e12058. doi: 10.1002/jev2.12058. Epub 2021 Mar 12. PMID: 33738082; PMCID: PMC7953474.

Additional information:

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 new official webpage of RED-DM is coordinating research efforts in Myotonic Dystrophy

NANBIOSIS introduces the new webpage of RED-DM, uniting experts to combat Myotonic Dystrophy. Highlighting Ramón Eritja’s group’s pivotal role.

29 February 2024, IQAC-CSIC (Barcelona)

In a significant stride toward addressing the challenges posed by Myotonic Dystrophy, the Translational Genomics Group of the INCLIVA Health Research Institute (associated with the Valencia Clinical Hospital) and the University of Valencia (BIOTECMED Institute) have spearheaded the establishment of the Red Temática Nacional en Distrofia Miotónica tipo 1 (National Thematic Network in Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1). This progressive and degenerative disease, also referred to simply as DM1, is currently incurable and underdiagnosed. In addition, it can lead to muscle weakness, atrophy, arrhythmias, and cognitive deficits. This multidisciplinary network brings together leading research groups in DM1 and the development of oligonucleotide-based therapies (small RNA fragments) at a national level, organized to collaborate cohesively and drive forward the study and development of medications to treat this worrisome condition.

One of the key pieces of this initiative is the prominent role played by the group led by Ramón Eritja, a distinguished researcher affiliated with NANBIOSIS through his Unit 29. Prof. Eritja’s group brings unparalleled expertise in oligonucleotide research to RED-DM. With a proven track record in developing innovative therapies and unique oligonucleotide designs, their pioneering work significantly advances the understanding and treatment of Myotonic Dystrophy, offering hope to countless individuals affected by this debilitating condition.

What is Myotonic Dystrophy?

Myotonic Distrophy Type 1 (DM1), also known as Steinert’s disease, stands as a challenging hereditary muscular dystrophy characterized by myotonia, muscle wasting, and weakness with multiorgan involvement. Its clinical hallmarks include respiratory problems, cardiac arrhythmias stemming from defects in the heart’s muscle conduction system, early-onset cataracts, hypogonadism, insulin resistance, and hypersomnia, among others. It is the most prevalent form of muscular dystrophy appearing in adulthood, affecting approximately one case per 8,000 individuals in European populations.

To know more about DM1, visit the RED-DM webpage.

Introducing the new RED-DM webpage:

The newly launched official webpage of RED-DM serves as a hub for disseminating information, fostering collaboration, and facilitating communication among researchers, clinicians, and stakeholders invested in combating DM1. It provides a platform to showcase ongoing research endeavors, share resources, and promote dialogue to accelerate progress in understanding and treating this complex disease.

Through the concerted efforts of RED-DM and its constituent research groups, including the pivotal contribution of Ramón Eritja’s team, a unified approach to tackling DM1 is being realized. By leveraging collective expertise and resources, RED-DM aims to catalyze advancements in therapeutic interventions and ultimately improve outcomes for individuals affected by this debilitating disease.

For further information and updates on RED-DM’s initiatives and collaborative efforts, visit the newly launched official webpage here.

This article is in the context of Rare Disease Day 2024. To stay up to date, visit our news section here.

Additional information:

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 biomedical Solutions, apply 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

U16-S08. Electrical characterisation of surfaces through the determination of zeta potential

Electrical characterisation of surfaces through the determination of zeta potential

This service allows the determination of the electrical interaction potential or zeta potential of large surfaces with different geometries and sizes such as flat solids, powders, fibres, foils or porous materials. It allows working with conductive and non-conductive materials. By determining the zeta potential, this service can determine the surface electrical properties of these materials. It also makes it possible to monitor the electrical changes that a surface may undergo during adsorption-desorption processes of different molecular species. The electrical effects of physical or chemical treatments applied to the surface of materials can be known. The removal of trace impurities present on the surface of a sample during a cleaning process can be monitored electrically.

Customer benefits

The service will be provided by specialists in materials characterisation and works in accordance with ISO, ASTM, ASME and EUR standards. In addition, it can also provide detailed reports according to the needs of the study.

Target customer

The service can meet the needs of companies by providing support for their ISO, ASTM, ASME and EUR controls. In addition, it can also service research groups with detailed reports according to the needs of the study.

Additional information

• Read More

The fight against rare respiratory diseases: New hope in detection and treatment

Researchers from IQAC-CSIC advance towards faster detection and treatment of cystic fibrosis and rare respiratory diseases, improving patient outcomes.

28 February 2024, IQAC-CSIC (Barcelona)

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a progressive autosomal recessive disease. It is caused by a mutation in the gene encoding the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) protein, disrupting its exocrine activity. While CF affects various organs, its impact on the lungs is particularly severe. This disease leads to the accumulation of thick, sticky mucus, obstructing airways and trapping bacteria, resulting in significant infections and extensive lung damage. Consequently, individuals with CF are highly susceptible to respiratory tract infections. In this regard, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus are among the most prevalent pathogens.

Early detection of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus in CF patients is crucial to eradicate these pathogens before the development of chronic colonization. Moreover, even after the chronic colonization occurs, proper control of the bacterial burden is necessary to minimize progressive lung deterioration. Currently, the gold standard for detecting these bacteria involves conventional bacterial culture methods. However, as in any infectious process, time is of the essence, and these techniques typically take 2 to 3 days to be confirmed. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop faster, more sensitive, and specific diagnostic methods.

In this context, the Nanobiotechnology for Diagnostics (Nb4D) group at the IQAC-CSIC, in which the Unit 2 of NANBIOSIS (CAbS) is integrated, focuses much of its research on bacterial communication systems, specifically Quorum Sensing (QS).

Quorum Sensing is a fascinating mechanism that allows bacteria to react to the presence of other bacteria. In other words, QS regulates bacterial gene expression in response to fluctuations in microbial population density. QS-sensitive bacteria produce and release signaling molecules called autoinducers (AIs). Just the detection of a minimum concentration of AIs triggers radical changes in gene expression, activating processes such as biofilm formation or virulence.

The QS system is well-characterized for both P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. This makes the detection of these AIs, or even QS-regulated virulence factors (VFs) (such as the aforementioned biofilm formation), a promising approach for bacterial identification. As a consequence, by knowing how AIs and VFs work, doctors can predict how an infection may progress. Much like a bacterial molecular fingerprint.

The research team of Nb4D and CAbS.

Thanks to their solid know-how, the Nb4D group has developed specific antibodies against AIs and VFs of both bacterial species. With that under their belt, this group has designed ELISA assays capable of detecting these molecules. Then, using this popular technique, they managed to run detection tests in approximately 2 hours, both in bacterial isolates and sputum human samples.

Additionally, our researchers are evaluating these antibodies as therapeutic agents using cell cultures, using their antibodies to block dangerous VFs and AIs. These studies are yielding promising results in mitigating the cytotoxic effects caused by the aforementioned VFs and AIs.

Detecting Alpha-1-antitrypsin protein

In addressing rare diseases related to the respiratory system, the Nb4D group is also involved in developing a device for detecting Alpha-1-antitrypsin protein. The genetic deficiency of this protein causes damage to the lungs and liver, affecting 1 in every 2500 individuals in Europe. Rapid and highly sensitive detection of Alpha-1-antitrypsin levels should enable immediate treatment initiation, thereby preventing potential complications.

This research line represents an example of clinical cooperation. It involves collaboration with clinical personnel from Hospital del Mar, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol (Barcelona), and Hospital Son Espases (Mallorca). In addition, the interest has peaked to the point of attracting funding such as State ‘Plan Estatal de I+D+I’, as well as a grant from the ‘Fundació La Marató’ of TV3, among other sources.

Through innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, the Nb4D group is dedicated to improving outcomes for individuals affected by rare respiratory diseases. This involves their work in cystic fibrosis among other conditions, pushing forward the understanding and management of these challenging diseases.

This article is in the context of Rare Disease Day 2024. To stay up to date, visit our news section here.

Additional information:

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 biomedical Solutions, apply 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 upcoming events: The active role of NANBIOSIS in awareness of rare diseases

For Rare Disease Day, we raise awareness through 2 events: 1 in Barcelona (Feb 28) & another in Madrid (Feb 29). Collaboration & research in focus.

28-29 February 2024, Rare Disease Day 2024

NANBIOSIS is actively involved in promoting awareness and understanding of rare diseases, Due to their lower incidence, these conditions are often face neglect in medical research and industrial treatment. To spotlight this crucial issue, NANBIOSIS is pleased to announce its participation in two significant events coinciding with Rare Disease Day celebrations. These events will address various aspects of rare and minority diseases research and treatment.

Event 1: February 28th at Vall d’Hebron, Barcelona

On February 28th, NANBIOSIS will contribute to the Rare Diseases Symposium at Vall d’Hebron Hospital in Barcelona. This event, available for both in-person attendance and online viewing, will commence at 10:00 and feature a series of informative talks until 12:25.

Held at the Auditorium (10th floor) of Vall d’Hebron General Hospital (Pg. de la Vall d’Hebron, 119, Horta-Guinardó, 08035 Barcelona, Spain), the symposium will explore rare diseases across different life stages, with a focus on the role of new technologies in diagnosis and the importance of informed consent.

Members from the group of Clinical Biochemistry, Drug Delivery & Therapy (CB-DDT), in which NANBIOSIS Unit 20 is integrated, are proud to be a part of this event.

To read the full programme of the event, click here. To find more information about the event and to follow it online, follow this link.

Researchers from Clinical Biochemistry, Drug Delivery & Therapy (CB-DDT) at Vall d’Hebron, in which NANBIOSIS Unit 20 is integrated.

Event 2: February 29th at CaixaForum, Madrid

The XIII edition of the CIBERER Day “Research is Progressing” will take place on February 29th from 15:30 to 19:30 at the Auditorium of CaixaForum Madrid (Paseo del Prado 36).

Led by Pablo Lapunzina, Scientific Director of CIBERER, this event will showcase the latest advancements from the center. CIBERER, a part of CIBER, which houses CIBER-BBN, one of the three institutions comprising NANBIOSIS. The event will also feature presentations on collaborative initiatives between CIBERER researchers and patient associations, followed by a panel discussion on the role of biobanks in rare disease research.

For more information about his event, including attendance, click here.

These events reflect NANBIOSIS’s ongoing commitment to advancing research and treatment options for rare diseases, highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing these often overlooked conditions.

To stay up to date, visit our news section here.

Additional information:

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 biomedical Solutions, apply 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