Objective:
The ACCURE project promotes cross-border cooperation between Austrian and Czech partners in the field “research and innovation” in medicine and biotechnology. The partners involved include universities (VUT, MU, JKU), research institutions (PROFACTOR) and private companies (Enantis, Tiger).
Project description:
ACCURE is dedicated to the development of a novel, 3D-printed in-vitro skin model that reproduces the structure and function of human skin. This model will be used to test drugs and therapeutic substances, particularly for the healing of acute and chronic wounds such as diabetic ulcers, the treatment of eczema and other skin diseases, and for testing cosmetics. By using this model, new drugs and materials can be developed more quickly and the use of animal models can be reduced in accordance with the 3R principles (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement).
Methodology and technologies:
PROFACTOR uses advanced 3D printing technologies and biomaterials to produce a scaffold structure for the in-vitro skin model. This model will be developed as part of the project and used for testing therapeutics. This will enable the determination of the efficacy of bioactive compounds and reduce the need for animal testing.
Benefits and application:
Companies and hospitals acting as strategic partners will have access to the project results. The availability of a realistic in-vitro skin model will benefit companies in the fields of wound and skin healing. It will facilitate the testing of additives, therapeutics and cosmetic products for various pharmaceutical companies and reduce testing costs by avoiding animal testing.
Long-term results:
The quality of life of patients, especially diabetics, will improve. There are 66 million people living with diabetes in Europe, and the Czech Republic has the ninth highest diabetes mortality rate in the EU. Diabetics often suffer from slow-healing acute and chronic wounds. The full skin model developed is intended to support these patients in two ways: Firstly, by accelerating the development and testing of new drugs and biomaterials, and secondly, through the potential use of the skin model as an implantable bioscaffold for tissue regeneration.
The ACCURE project aims to make significant advances in medical and biotechnological research through innovative technologies and international collaboration to improve the treatment of skin diseases and wounds and reduce reliance on animal testing.
Project name:
Austrian-Czech Union for Regenerative Medicine for Acute and Chronic Wounds
Funding:
(Interreg AT-CZ) Austria-Czech Republic
Duration:
01.07.2024 – 31.06.2027
