Invitation to Cluster’s 1 Excellence Chemistry Lecture titled: Advanced human heart models and gene therapies. Are they connected? - R&D dualism.

You are cordially invited to a talk organized by Cluster 1, titled: “Advanced biomaterials and technologies for health”.

Title of the lecture: Advanced human heart models and gene therapies. Are they connected? - R&D dualism."

Abstract

As the field of cardiac science evolves, innovative human heart models—ranging from organ-on-a-chip technologies to induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived tissues—offer unprecedented insights into heart physiology and disease mechanisms. Based on iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, we can expoit more mature heart tissue characteristics to be used not only in drug safety but also preclinical efficacy evaluation.

Advanced human tissue models are one of the crucial elements to further boost gene therapy field which has already gained momentum. With gene therapy drugs on the market, six CAR-T therapies approved, and some reaching blockbuster status, the cell & gene therapy (CGT) field is observing heavy R&D investments and clinical progress. Here, we will explore current status of CAR-T therapies with some remarks on first CAR-T therapy developed in Poland to reach clinical stage of development.

This lecture explores the intricate relationship between advanced human heart models and gene therapies in the context of cardiovascular research, and development in oncological field. Working examples from these two separate topics will be used to show advancement in biomedical research. We will try to point out the current regulatory environment which aims to bring together separate discoveries for better therapeutic outcomes.

Ultimately, we aim to illuminate the potential of a synergistic R&D strategy to accelerate the development of new therapies.