This grant is based on the research performed with a previous ERC starting grant in which Lorenzo’s group showed that adult stem cells encapsulated inside electrospun “hydrocups” remained viable for 28 days in vitro and released functional cytokines similar to hMSCs in hydrogels alone. In addition, the hydrocups remained intact and fixed in place for 6 weeks after subcutaneous implantation in rats. This is very promising since secreted cytokines can have positive effects such as immunomodulation, angiogenesis and tissue regeneration.

In this ERC proof of concept proposal, they will further study the hydrocup as a device for a wide variety of cell-based cytokine secretion or drug-laden hydrogel applications. Of special interest is the cardiac regeneration market where stem cell based therapies have so far suffered from low viability of cells after injection. Following a market analysis study of competitors in the cell therapy field, they will propose an initial business plan for seeking further investments to create a spin-off company at the end of the grant.