What is it about?

The Advanced Therapy LifeScience Hub is an innovative initiative supported by the Ministry of Health as part of the National Plan for Complementary Investments (PNC) to the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). This project aims to create an integrated research and development ecosystem in the field of advanced therapies, with a particular focus on gene therapies, cell therapies, and innovative biotechnologies. The Hub, coordinated by the Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital (OPBG), represents a center of excellence that brings together some of the main Italian health and research institutions.

What is the rationale?

The rationale behind the LifeScience Hub is the need to enhance the capacity of the National Health System (SSN) to develop and implement innovative therapies for the treatment of complex and rare diseases. Specifically, the project aims to bridge the existing gap between basic research and clinical application, facilitating technology transfer and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration. Recognizing the strategic importance of these technologies, the Ministry of Health has allocated significant funding of 100 million euros, of which 30 million are specifically dedicated to the establishment of life science hubs and the creation of a network of technology transfer centers in the field of advanced therapies.

Innovation and novelty of the project

The LifeScience Hub stands out from previous projects for its integrated and multidisciplinary approach, involving numerous partners distributed throughout the national territory with the aim not only to implement but also to share the knowledge and technologies already present in numerous Italian excellences, uniting them to enhance research to compete internationally in the extraordinarily complex field of advanced therapies. Among the main innovations introduced by the project are:

Gene Therapies for Rare Diseases: The project plans to develop targeted gene therapies to correct the defects at the basis of rare genetic diseases.
Genetically Modified Cells for Cancer Treatment: A key innovation of the project is the design and production of genetically modified immune cells for cancer treatment, including the use of modified T lymphocytes to recognize and destroy tumor cells, offering new hope to cancer patients.
Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy: The project explores the use of stem cells and tissue engineering techniques to regenerate damaged tissues.
Tissue Engineering: The use of tissue engineering to create artificial tissues that can replace or repair damaged tissues is another pillar of the project. The focus includes the development of biocompatible materials and scaffolds that can support cell growth and tissue regeneration. This advanced research aims to improve treatment options for patients with severe tissue or organic injuries.
Immunotherapy for Infectious Diseases and Immunomodulation: In addition to cancer, the project explores the use of cellular therapies to modulate the immune system in infectious and autoimmune diseases. The goal is to develop modified immune cells that can enhance the immune response against pathogens or reduce chronic inflammation in autoimmune diseases.

Objectives and Benefits

The project not only aims to enhance research and innovation in the field of advanced therapies but also to generate a positive impact on the Italian healthcare system and economy. Among the main objectives of the LifeScience Hub are:

Technology transfer: Facilitate the transition of innovations from the research phase to clinical practice, improving access to new therapies for patients.
Training and professional development: Provide advanced training opportunities for researchers and healthcare professionals, promoting the acquisition of cutting-edge skills.
Interdisciplinary collaboration: Promote synergy between academic institutions, hospitals, and biotechnology companies, creating a collaborative network that accelerates innovation.

The LifeScience Hub represents a decisive step towards a future where advanced therapies will be accessible to an increasing number of patients, improving the quality of life and care prospects for many complex and rare diseases.