A group of researchers from iMed.ULisboa was a finalist in the 1st edition of the Jorge Ruas Award: Innovation in Pharmaceutical Technology, as part of the Tecnimede Open Innovation Competition.
According to Gonçalo Garcia, spokesperson for the group of researchers, the finalist project ‘NEXOLIVAD’ presents an innovative approach to the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, using exosomes – natural cell communication vesicles – modified to carry a therapeutic load capable of acting on multiple targets of the disease.
The team, consisting of Gonçalo Garcia, Dora Brites, Joana Miranda, Elsa Rodrigues, Mafalda Migueis, João Estarreja from FFUL and iMed. ULisboa, Artemizia Évora, a former student at FFUL, and José Fernandez (University of the Basque Country), has shown promising results in pre-clinical trials, including behavioural improvements in animal models, and intends to move forward with biosafety assessment and intellectual property protection through international patents.
The Jorge Ruas Award recognises disruptive innovations in the field of pharmaceutical technology, evaluated by an international panel of academics and entrepreneurs from the sector, awarding a cash prize of €100,000.
The award ceremony took place on 17 September at the headquarters of the Portuguese Pharmaceutical Society in Lisbon, in partnership with HiSeedTech.
More information here.
