Our aim is to develop innovative strategies for regenerative therapies and to revise current treatment guidelines, which have so far failed to restore physiological homeostasis locally or systemically. Our comprehensive approach will address the full translational pipeline. After characterizing insufficient regeneration in patients and improving patient stratification, we will analyze the underlying (patho)mechanisms and use the insights gained to develop novel therapies and diagnostics, such as living drugs (Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products, ATMPs) and combinatorial therapies. To avoid late failure, we will test new approaches in suitable preclinical models before assessing safety and efficacy in clinical trials. Eventually, cycles of improvements of the new approach may be completed iteratively, to achieve refined translation and ultimately a superior treatment option.

With its translational focus on developing novel therapeutic approaches, this Research Objective contributes to the patient-oriented arm of the BIH mission. In doing so, a scientific reflection of translation as a refinement process is enabled and we contribute to the development of translation as a science in itself, thus strongly interacting with the Translational Methodologies Research Objective. In our iterative refinement of advanced regenerative therapies, we will also benefit from the expertise and insights gained in the Computational and Functional Precision Medicine Research Objective. Finally, in achieving our goals, we will develop scientific technologies and know-how (e.g. bioengineering solutions, innovative cell therapies, improved genetic and epigenetic modification technologies, novel cellular reprogramming approaches). We will thus help patients serve the scientific translational community and create valorization potential.

In this Research Objective, we will analyze the following factors that impact regeneration across different organ systems and medical conditions:

Activities

  • Stem Cell Products

    Pluripotent stem cells, specifically, human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and organoids derived from primary tissues offer a unique opportunity for regenerative medicine. hiPSCs and organoids can be easily derived from almost any patient and could thus enable personalized cell-based therapies. Promising first steps have been taken to introduce hiPSCs to the clinic.

    Find out more in our Strategic Research Program 2023-2027.

  • Immunomodulation

    Inflammation and a persistent immune imbalance are major challenges for regeneration. A delicately balanced immune response is the key to fully restoring local and systemic homeostasis after disruptive events. Modulating inflammation
    is thus a promising approach to regenerative therapy. This can include the integrative improvement of established therapies (‘refined translation’).

    Find out more in our Strategic Research Program 2023-2027.

  • Extracellular Matrix

    While life sciences have traditionally focused on understanding disease development and progression at cellular and molecular levels, there is growing interest in the extracellular matrix (ECM) as both a therapeutic target and a therapeutic product. By understanding the ECM’s pathophysiology, biophysics, and how its characteristics influence cellular behavior and function, we can elucidate the ECM’s current and potential roles in controlling cell behavior during disease progression or tissue healing. This knowledge will pave the way for the development of ECM-based and ECM-targeting therapies.

    Find out more in our Strategic Research Program 2023-2027.

  • Mechanobiology

    Tissues and organs in the human body are designed to support different kinds of mechanical loads. Most importantly, cells within tissues are able to sense and respond to those mechanical signals, not only in physiological homeostasis and pathologic settings but also during regeneration. Successful tissue regeneration can only occur within given ranges of mechanical stimuli, with mechanical signals that are too high or too low leading to repair failure. Understanding the mechanical signals within tissues and the cellular response to these mechanical signals is therefore important for the treatment of many disorders.

    Find out more in our Strategic Research Program 2023-2027.

Further Research Objectives