Objective Given the poor regenerative potential of the adult heart after heart failure (HF), therapies capable of contributing for cardioprotection and cardio-regeneration are of great need. Recent advances in pharmacologic therapy and stem cells are currently not enough to address HF. The hypothesis of this project is that exosomes, nanovesicles secreted by cells may be a potential therapy for HF. Exosomes may offer advantages relatively to cell-based therapies regarding efficacy (does not require engraftment and survival), processing and cost. The main objective of the current project is to develop an effective strategy to deliver exosomes by intravenous (IV) injection into the heart (targeting) and to maximize exosome regenerative potential (bioactivity). Therefore, the project aims to develop a non-cellular-based therapy to regenerate the heart after infarction based on the targeted delivery of exosomes. Undertaking this research along with formal training and mentoring will enhance my academic profile, scientific experience, and content expertise in nanobiotechnology, to enable me to develop into an independent, leading researcher. The proposed research contributes to the EU priority of addressing the societal challenge of improving lifelong health and wellbeing of all. Fields of science medical and health sciencesbasic medicineneurologydementiaalzheimernatural sciencesbiological sciencescell biologymedical and health sciencesmedical biotechnologycells technologiesstem cellsmedical and health sciencesclinical medicinecardiologymedical and health sciencesclinical medicinetransplantation Programme(s) H2020-EU.1.3. - EXCELLENT SCIENCE - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Main Programme H2020-EU.1.3.2. - Nurturing excellence by means of cross-border and cross-sector mobility Topic(s) MSCA-IF-2016 - Individual Fellowships Call for proposal H2020-MSCA-IF-2016 See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MSCA-IF-EF-ST - Standard EF Coordinator CENTRO DE NEUROCIENCIAS E BIOLOGIACELULAR ASSOCIACAO Net EU contribution € 160 635,60 Address Universidade de coimbra largo marques de pombal 3004 517 Coimbra Portugal See on map Region Continente Centro (PT) Região de Coimbra Activity type Research Organisations Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window Participation in EU R&I programmes Opens in new window HORIZON collaboration network Opens in new window Other funding € 0,00