Copy of the brain gets SEK 60 million
3D models that mimic human organs or tissue, such as organoids, help researchers better understand disease processes and prevent disease. SSF’s contribution of SEK 60 million to a multidisciplinary center for complex cellular systems goes to Sven Nelander and the project “CNSx3: Transformative Models for Brain Diseases”.
The CNSx3 center aims to develop ground-breaking therapies against brain diseases. Three techniques will be used together: organoid cultures in fluid circuits, patient-specific biobanks and advanced computational methodology.
In the project, machine learning will also be used to find new treatments and tailor therapies for individual patients.
The developed methods will be used in two areas where experimental models have so far been lacking. Partly for cancer of the brain, a form of cancer in which many children die and where there is no treatment for adults, partly for vascular malformations in the brain which mean an increased risk of brain haemorrhage and where there is no preventive treatment.
In the center, eight academic groups from several universities and two companies will collaborate with patient organizations and partners in Europe, to develop the methodology and to use it in the best way.
Principal applicant is Sven Nelander, UU, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology. Co-applicants are:
Daniel Aili LiU Materials Science and Technology
Niklas Dahl UU Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology
Philip Gerlee Department of Mathematical Sciences, University of Gothenburg/Chalmers University of Technology
Rebecka Jörnsten Department of Mathematical Sciences, University of Gothenburg/Chalmers University of Technology
Peetra Magnusson UU Immunology, Genetics and Pathology
Fredrik Swartling UU Immunology, Genetics and Pathology
Maria Tenje UU Materials Science and Engineering.
The goal of the project is to develop biotechnological innovations, new treatments, train researchers and place Sweden among the foremost in an expansive field.
The project is part of SSF’s ongoing investment in Multidisciplinary Research Centers (MRC). The aim is to stimulate multidisciplinary research between academia, research institutes, industry and society for sharper results and faster application.
Project start is January 1, 2025.
For further information, please contact:
Research Secretary Johan Nilsson, johan.nilsson@strategiska.se, 08 – 505 81 674
Program manager Joakim Amorim, joakim.amorim@strategiska.se, 08-505 816 65