Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine
With the goal of developing a technology for brain regeneration, the EU project REGENERAR was launched in 2024. Fraunhofer ITEM is one of seven research partners, led by the University of Coimbra, who are working to improve the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and stroke.
The four-year project will explore a method that uses epigenetic tools to convert brain cells into functional neurons. This technology could open new perspectives for treating conditions for which there are currently limited treatment options. The aim is to replace lost nerve cells, which are damaged in conditions like stroke or neurodegenerative diseases, as the central nervous system has a very limited capacity for self-repair. Researchers at Fraunhofer ITEM are evaluating the safety of a nanoparticle-based formulation through toxicological studies to provide an initial assessment of its toxicological profile. These studies will consider histopathology, neurotoxicity, and metabolism. At the same time, the consortium is working on a strategy to translate the technology into clinical applications.
The REGENERAR project is funded by the European Innovation Council’s Pathfinder Open program with 3 million euros. In addition to Fraunhofer ITEM and the University of Coimbra, partners from Sweden, Germany, and Portugal are involved. The research results are expected to be laboratory validated by February 2028.
