Background
Regenerative medicine represents one of the most promising frontiers in modern healthcare, offering transformative solutions to restore damaged tissues and organs through advanced biotechnological approaches. The field integrates stem cell research, biomaterials, tissue engineering, and 3D bioprinting to develop innovative therapies addressing conditions that remain challenging or impossible to treat with conventional medicine.
Despite rapid advancements, the widespread adoption of regenerative medicine faces multiple barriers. These include challenges in manufacturing scalability, regulatory approval pathways, standardization of bioprinted tissues, and ensuring compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) for clinical applications. Additionally, securing sustainable investment and establishing clear reimbursement frameworks for advanced therapies remain critical for their commercial success.
Key Project
The KeratOPrinter Project, funded under the Horizon Europe Framework Programme (grant agreement No. 101191726), serves as a pivotal initiative driving regenerative medicine forward. This project focuses on developing a bioprinting suite capable of producing full-thickness corneal grafts, addressing the global shortage of donor corneas. By leveraging iPSC-derived corneal cells, bioinks, and advanced 3D bioprinting technologies, KeratOPrinter aims to enhance precision, scalability, and accessibility of biofabricated tissues for ophthalmology.
The project is a multidisciplinary collaboration between leading research institutes, SMEs, and industry partners specializing in stem cell differentiation, biomaterials, regulatory affairs, and clinical ophthalmology. The integration of GMP-compliant workflows and AI-driven quality control mechanisms ensures the reliability and reproducibility of bioprinted tissues, facilitating their transition into clinical applications.
Regenerative Medicine Helix
The Regenerative Medicine Helix is an international Open Innovation network dedicated to accelerating the adoption of biofabrication and regenerative technologies. Launched as part of the KeratOPrinter initiative, this Helix serves as a focal point for impact, exploitation, and knowledge-sharing among key stakeholders, including:
- Biomedical researchers developing new therapeutic applications.
- Healthcare professionals integrating regenerative medicine into clinical practice.
- Biotech and MedTech industries advancing 3D bioprinting and stem cell-based therapies.
- Regulatory bodies and policymakers shaping the future of advanced therapies.
- Investors and funding agencies fostering sustainable business models for regenerative medicine.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the granting authority. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 or Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101191726.
