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Multifunctional Nanogel for Prolonged Immunoregulation and ECM Remodelling in Post-Surgical Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma: Organ-on-Chip Model

Project description

Multifunctional nanogel-based therapy development for DIPG

One of the rarest brain tumours, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is the main reason for brain tumour-related deaths among children. Although the treatment can be considered quite aggressive, it is difficult mainly due to insufficient drug delivery and fast progression of the condition. Supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the psDIPG-NG project will focus on developing a multimodal nanogel. With the use of advanced microfluidics and organ-on-a-chip technologies, it will mimic human physiology and test potential therapies without conducting unnecessary experiments with animals. Ultimately, the project could pave the way for improved clinical prospects and advance next-generation nanomedicine approaches.

Objective

Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma is a highly invasive pediatric brain cancer with frequent recurrence and progression of surgical wound tissues after surgical resection. To address these challenges, the fellow will develop a novel multifunctional nanogel that enhances drug delivery and efficacy. This innovative strategy has the potential to improve treatment outcomes for children suffering from DIPG by addressing biological barriers and complexity of tumor microenvironments. The project will apply a microfluidic device and organ-on-a-chip model to mimic normal physiological tissue and replace animal experiments. The fellow will bring his experience on the synthesis, characterization, and biological evaluation of nanogel gained during his PhD and postdoctoral studies to the host lab of Dr Katerina at UP, an expert in nanomedicine. The proposed study will be of significant fundamental and practical importance in childhood brain cancer, as it offers novel nanogel formulations with potential applications for even other types of brain malignancies. Comprehensive training in the host lab and international research visits will broaden the fellow's experimental skills and transfer his new skills and knowledge to the local researchers and technicians. The study findings will be disseminated through three publications and presented orally and as a poster at the international conferences and local research events. The project is highly interdisciplinary, involving Bioengineers, chemists, and pediatric oncologists. It also aligns with the European objectives of sustainable growth and climate change mitigation. The supervisors, Dr Kateřina Poláková and Prof. Professor Andreas Hierlemann (ETH Zurich), have the experience and resources to effectively supervise the fellow and ensure the implementation of MSCA action. Through skill development and extensive training, the fellow will be well-positioned for significant career advancement and a future leadership role.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

Keywords

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Funding Scheme

HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships

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Call for proposal

(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2025-PF

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Coordinator

UNIVERZITA PALACKEHO V OLOMOUCI
Net EU contribution
€ 207 758,16
Address
KRIZKOVSKEHO 8
771 47 Olomouc
Czechia
Region
Česko Střední Morava Olomoucký kraj
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Links
Total cost
No data

Partners (1)