Objective
The SUPRAHEART proof-of-concept project aims to use our squaramide-based (SQ) filamentous double network hydrogels for assembly of engineered heart tissues (EHTs). As the current dependency of EHTs on natural materials (e.g. collagen I, Matrigel) limits their large-scale application as cardiac models, their generation using a fully synthetic matrix will provide improved reproducibility, tunability and scalability, opening the door for their use as a high-throughput pharmaceutical testing platform. Expanding on our development of bioactive and mechanically tunable squaramide-based hydrogels for the 3D culture of a broad range of cell types, we will scale-up the synthesis of the needed squaramide materials, perform in- depth characterization of the structural and mechanical properties of formed hydrogels, develop protocols to generate EHTs in the squaramide hydrogels and evaluate the quality of the formed tissues within the materials. In parallel with these activities, we will prepare a business plan that presents a roadmap to market, perform detailed market research on these mechanically tunable hydrogels for 3D cell culture and protect our intellectual property (IP) position. Should a patent application be successful, we will collaborate with local partners for commercialization through product licensing.
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2024-POC
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
2311 EZ Leiden
Netherlands
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.