+34 620 10 75 37info@nanbiosis.com
404
ERROR
The successful development of this innovative treatment approach was possible through the efforts of our Unit 9, led by Prof. Santamaría and Dr. Hueso, both corresponding authors of the publication.
As recently announced by Universidad de Zaragoza (Unizar), a team led by NANBIOSIS researchers at the Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA, a joint institute of CSIC and UNIZAR) has discovered a way to artificially conduct a new chemical reaction, called transamination. This approach can act within cancer cells to destroy molecules vital for the development and growth of tumor cells. The prestigious journal Nano Letters have recently published this work, led by Unizar professors and researchers Javier Bonet–Aletá, José Luis Hueso, and Jesús Santamaría, also affiliated with NANBIOSIS, INMA (CSIC-UNIZAR), CIBER–BBN, and IIS Aragon.
The technique aims to replace current chemotherapy, carrying catalysts that either generate toxic molecules inside the tumor or eliminate molecules it needs to keep growing.
Catalytic therapy constitutes a new strategy in the fight against cancer, aiming to trigger harmful chemical reactions for the tumor. Ultimately, the goal is to replace current chemotherapy by carrying catalysts that either generate toxic molecules inside the tumor or eliminate molecules necessary for its proliferation.
Regarding eliminating key molecules, first published in 2015, catalysts targeted either glucose, an important energy source for cancer cells; or glutathione, an antioxidant that protects tumor cells from highly reactive radical species. The later is partly responsible for these cells’ resistance to chemotherapy treatments. Both glucose and glutathione can be eliminated through oxidation reactions. However, this is especially challenging to apply due to the scarcity of oxygen in the hypoxic tumor environment.
This study holds special importance not only because it opens the field to new reactions of interest in oncology, but also because it does so in a process – transamination – that does not require oxygen to occur. This eliminates the main restriction of catalytic therapies. The reaction operates on amino acids, essential components that cells use to produce proteins, and also pyruvate, a small and abundant molecule involved in the main energy acquisition pathway in the cell. The reaction between them reduces the levels of amino acids and pyruvate in cancer cells, leading them to a critical state and halting their expansion and growth.
During transamination, an amino group is exchanged between an amino acid and pyruvate, generating a substance that the cell cannot easily utilize. Our researchers demonstrated this by reacting pyruvate with various amino acids, such as glutamine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, or glutathione itself. However, transamination has one drawback: it is catalyzed by copper atoms, whose flow through the cell membrane under normal conditions is highly restricted. To overcome this limitation, researchers designed nanoparticles containing this metal, enhancing internalization into tumor cells. Once internalized, the nanoparticle dissolves, releasing copper atoms that act as catalysts in the transamination reaction.
In addition of Dr. José Luis Hueso, and Dr. Jesús Santamaría, other members of Unizar also participated, such as Dr. Javier Martin–Martin from the Department of Organic Chemistry and INMA, and Dr. Miguel Encinas–Giménez, Dr. Ana Martín–Pardillos, and Dr. Pilar Martín–Duque, who are also members of the Aragon Health Research Institute (IIS), as well as Dr. Juan Vicente Alegre Requena, a CSIC scientist at the Institute of Chemical Synthesis and Homogeneous Catalysis, ISQCH, a joint CSIC-UNIZAR institute.
The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).
In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.
NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:
March 2024, UAB/Institut de Recerca Sant Pau/CIBER-BBN (Barcelona)
As we leave World Colorectal Cancer Day 2024 behind, marked on March 31st, there have been significant highlights in cancer treatment, a field in which targeted therapies are playing a crucial role.
In this context, researchers from the Nanobiotechnology team, at the Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina from Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, led by Prof. Antonio Villaverde, in collaboration with the Oncogenesis and Antitumor Drugs team led by Prof. Ramón Mangues at Institut de Recerca Sant Pau, have made a significant breakthrough in the treatment of colorectal cancer. Their innovative approach, facilitated by their respective Unit 1 and Unit 18 of NANBIOSIS, promises to revolutionize current treatment methodologies and improve patient outcomes.
“In a clinical context, the use of these materials in the treatment of colorectal cancer should greatly improve the drug’s efficacy and patient comfort while minimizing unwanted side effects.”
Prof. Antonio Villaverde, Strategy Director of Unit 1
“It is important to highlight that such accumulation is more effective than when the protein is administered into the bloodstream. This fact offers a new and unexpected way to ensure high local levels of the drug and better clinical efficacy, avoiding repeated intravenous administration regimens,” explains Prof. Villaverde. “In a clinical context, the use of these materials in the treatment of colorectal cancer should greatly improve the drug’s efficacy and patient comfort while minimizing unwanted side effects.”
The team’s groundbreaking research centers around the development of self-contained protein-only materials at the microscale, capable of delivering therapeutic polypeptides in a time-prolonged manner. These materials, resembling the organization of secretory granules within the human endocrine system, are engineered to release functional polypeptide nanoparticles. These nanoparticles can selectively target tumors and destroy specific types of cancer cells, offering a promising avenue for more effective and precise cancer treatment.
Notably, the researchers thorougly explored the molecular structure and dynamics of the secretion process of these materials, both in vitro and in vivo. In preclinical trials using an animal model of colorectal cancer, the system demonstrated remarkable efficacy upon subcutaneous administration. This was thanks to the released protein nanoparticles accumulating efficiently in tumor tissues. Importantly, this accumulation was found to be more effective than traditional intravenous administration methods, offering a novel strategy to ensure high local drug levels while minimizing systemic side effects.
Furthermore, several competitive research and technology transfer projects supported this research, as well as intramural CIBER-BBN projects. This further highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and funding initiatives in driving scientific progress.
The team’s work underscores the importance of continued investment in research and collaboration to tackle the challenges posed by colorectal cancer and other malignancies. As World Colorectal Cancer Day is observed globally, this breakthrough offers hope for a future where innovative treatments pave the way for improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life for cancer patients worldwide.
The successful development of this innovative treatment approach was possible through the collaborative efforts of two NANBIOSIS Units: the Protein Production Platform (Unit 1) and the Nanotoxicology Unit (Unit 18).
The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).
In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.
NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:
March 19th 2024, NANBIOSIS
As already announced at the end of last year, from NANBIOSIS we are poised for a groundbreaking leap forward thanks to a 1,800,000€ injection of European funding. This funding has recently materialized in a significant improvement and update of the equipment and services of NANBIOSIS Units.
The Spanish Government’s Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan (Plan de Recuperación, Transformación y Resiliencia – PRTR) stands as a beacon of hope amid the challenges brought forth by the COVID-19 crisis. This comprehensive roadmap not only charts a course for the modernization of the Spanish economy but also envisions a resilient and inclusive reconstruction post-pandemic.
In alignment with these objectives, the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation has announced substantial funding aimed at bolstering the Unique Scientific and Technical Infrastructures (ICTS) with a staggering amount granted to NANBIOSIS Units. This strategic investment serves as a testament to Spain’s commitment to fostering excellence in research and innovation, particularly in the realm of nanomedicine, biomaterials, and biomedical systems.
This initiative (…) has been allocated 1,800,000€ funding from the Next Generation EU funds, marking a pivotal moment in Spain’s scientific landscape.
One notable project, ICT2021-006987, spearheads the drive towards a new era of infrastructure designed to facilitate the production and preclinical characterization of advanced therapeutics and diagnostic tools. This initiative, championed by the CIBER node of NANBIOSIS, has been allocated 1,800,000€ funding from the Next Generation EU funds, marking a pivotal moment in Spain’s scientific landscape.
The impact of this investment reverberates across various facets of NANBIOSIS’ operations, with specific allocations directed towards enhancing research capabilities in critical areas. Maintenance, improvement, and acquisition of cutting-edge equipment across multiple NANBIOSIS Units will enable advancements in hybridoma development, immunochemistry, high-performance liquid chromatography, fluorescence analysis, and more.
By aligning with international standards and best practices, NANBIOSIS strengthens its position as a hub of scientific excellence with global relevance.
Notably, the acquisition of a MicroCT system for NANBIOSIS U13 and an MRI equipment scanner for NANBIOSIS U26 underscores Spain’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation in the biomedical field. These state-of-the-art instruments not only empower researchers with unprecedented capabilities but also pave the way for groundbreaking discoveries in areas such as tissue engineering, drug development, and precision medicine. In addition, by aligning with international standards and best practices, NANBIOSIS strengthens its position as a hub of scientific excellence with global relevance.
To see the full list of equipment and how the aforementioned funding has been allocated among our Units, visit here.
Looking ahead, the infusion of funds into NANBIOSIS projects represents just the beginning of a transformative journey towards a more resilient and innovative Spain.
In conclusion, the support extended to NANBIOSIS through the Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan heralds a new era of possibilities for Spanish research and innovation. By investing in cutting-edge infrastructure and research capabilities, Spain reaffirms its commitment to shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
Related News:
The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).
In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.
NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:
March13th 2024, online event
From NANBIOSIS we are pleased to announce the Presentation Day of Health Technologies by the MATERPLAT Health Innovation Group, which will take place on March 13th at 11:00 a.m. in an online format.
During this event, cutting-edge technologies being developed by MATERPLAT members in these three areas will be presented:
* Gels as scaffolds for tissue engineering.
* Biomimetic and/or biointeractive systems for controlled release of drugs or bioactive molecules.
* Biodegradable implants adapted to tissue and bone growth.
The objective of the event is to showcase these new technologies and foster collaboration among MATERPLAT members. Additionally, Viscofan company will participate, presenting its R&D priorities aligned with this theme, and Elisa Checa, Coordinator of NANBIOSIS, will inform us about the main services offered by this ICTS, which are useful for MATERPLAT members.
Elisa Checa, Coordinator of NANBIOSIS, will inform about the main services offered by our ICTS, which are useful for MATERPLAT members.
More specifically, she will talk about about the techological offer of NANBIOSIS, its implication in the private industry, and will also showcase some of the fruitful collaborations that NANBIOSIS had with several companies.
You can find more information about this online event here.
The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).
In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.
NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:
March 8th 2024, NANBIOSIS (Spain)
Kicking off on 11F “International Day of Women and Girls in Science” 2024, and spanning all the way until Woman’s Day 2024, our interview series has aimed to highlight the life, career and opinions of some of the brilliant minds within our network. Today is time to wrap it up, and for this reason we present you a summary of each of them and a chance to take a deeper look.
In these series we delved into the remarkable journeys, research endeavors, and challenges faced by these exceptional women in their pursuit of scientific excellence. From unraveling the mysteries of nanotechnology to pioneering advancements in biosciences, each researcher’s story resonates with perseverance, resilience, and a fervent commitment to breaking barriers. With no doubt their collective message resonates loudly: a call to inspire and empower the next generation of aspiring researchers, regardless of gender, to embark on their own transformative journeys in the world of science and innovation, as well as speaking out on the issues that female researchers still encounter today.
“Oligonucleotides (…) are recently being approved as new advanced gene therapies for many diseases, including rare and cardiovascular diseases.”
—Dr. Anna Aviñó, scientific coordinator of Unit 29.
Our leading chemist, specialized in nucleic acid chemistry, was the first interview published in these series. She offered us insights into her current projects focused on synthetic and structural studies of oligonucleotides. With a deep understanding of their applications in gene therapies and biosensors, Dr. Aviñó highlighted her contributions to the field and addressed challenges faced as a woman scientist.
Through her expertise and dedication, she advocates for gender equality in science, emphasizing the importance of unbiased education and empowering young women to pursue careers in research.
You can read the full interview here.
“There are challenging moments during a scientific career (…), but in the end, persistence pays off.”
—Dr. Ana Martín, collaborator scientist in Unit 9.
Ana has a multifaceted background spanning Veterinary Medicine, Biochemistry, and a Ph.D. And in this second part of our series she welcomed us into a world of scientific inquiry and innovation. In this interview, Ana shared her pioneering work in cancer research, utilizing nanoparticles for anti-tumor treatments. Ana also reflected on gender equality in science, the challenges of balancing motherhood with a scientific career, and her aspirations for a more inclusive scientific community.
You can read the full interview here.
“The most important thing in your professional career is to dedicate yourself to something you love (…) that’s incredibly important from a professional point of view.”
—Prof. Estefanía Peña, Scientific Coordinator of Unit 13.
In a captivating interview, Professor Estefanía Peña shared her insights on overcoming challenges, nurturing passion, and fostering collaborative success in achieving career stability. Amidst the bustling R&D environment, Professor Peña’s laboratory serves as a beacon of innovation and determination. With enthusiasm and warmth, she discussed her journey in computational modeling and biomedical engineering, highlighting her experiences, hurdles, and victories. Professor Peña’s story resonates as a testament to perseverance and dedication, offering valuable advice to aspiring researchers on following their passions.
You can read the full interview here.
“I am fortunate to be able to devote myself to something I am passionate about. Research is something I enjoy every day.”
—Dr. María Sancho, Researcher at Unit 9.
Dr. Sancho, our expert in nanocarriers and cancer therapy, shared with us her inspiring journey from biotechnology to groundbreaking research. Set in Zaragoza, Spain, the interview highlighted Maria’s passion and perseverance in pursuing scientific excellence. With warmth and enthusiasm, she discussed her innovative work in developing nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery in cancer treatment. Maria’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring scientists, showcasing the transformative power of dedication and curiosity in the pursuit of scientific advancement.
You can read the full interview here.
“I would advise (young women) to pursue their dreams, to show others what they are capable of, and not to let themselves be underestimated.”
—Dr. Susana Vílchez, technical and quality manager of Unit 12.
Dr. Vílchez offered a profound insight into her research endeavors and career trajectory. Specializing in the characterization of colloidal systems such as micelles, vesicles, emulsions, and more, her current focus lies on the intriguing realm of water-in-water emulsions and the formation of microcoacervates, serving as a model for membraneless organelles (MLO) by introducing DNA into these emulsions. During the interview, Dr. Vílchez also shed light on the gender biases prevalent in her field and offered invaluable perspectives on fostering gender equality in science. Through her experiences and unwavering dedication, she inspires young women to pursue their scientific aspirations while advocating for broader inclusivity and recognition of women’s contributions in shaping the scientific landscape.
You can read the full interview here.
“(I) design and work on a research line that combines computational models with cardiac signals and images. This was done with the aim of stratifying arrhythmic risk and understanding its mechanisms.”
—Dr. Ana Mincholé, researcher at Unit 27.
In this part 6 of our interview series, Dr. Ana Mincholé discussed her groundbreaking work in cardiac risk assessment, gender challenges in science, and the transformative potential of Digital Twins in healthcare research. Dr. Mincholé’s insights offered a glimpse into her innovative approach to integrating computational models with clinical data to advance cardiac care. Her passion for science and dedication to promoting diversity in STEM shine through, underscoring the invaluable contributions of women in the field.
You can read the full interview here.
In this part VII, we had the pleasure to interview Dr. Eli Prats, a brilliant researches from Unit 8 and a fantastic science communicator. Watch it full here:
The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).
In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.
NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:
NANBIOSIS is a Research Infrastructure for Biomedicine made up of the Platforms of the Center for Centro de Ivesntigación Biomedica en Red (CIBER- in the area of Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine -CIBER-BBN), the Preclinical Infrastructure and the Development of Minimally Invasive Technologies, of the Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Center (CCMIJU) and the Nanoimaging unit of the Biomedical Research Institute of Malaga-Nanomedicine Platform (IBIMA-BIONAND Platform).
NANBIOSIS as part of the Spanish Map of ICTS (an acronym for “Scientific and Technical Unique Infrastructures” in Spanish), approved by the Ministry of Science and Innovation, is open to all interested national and international users who may come either from the public or the private sector, and who can apply for access under the “Competitive Open Access” or “Access on Demand” modalities.
The 20% of the NANBIOSIS Units’ capacity is granted on the Competitive Open Access modality and will be prioritized according to scientific and technical quality and singularity of the applictions.
Consult the Resolution and details here
Related News:
March 2024, UAB/Vall d’Hebron Research Institute/CIBER-BBN (Barcelona)
The battle against infectious diseases demands innovative solutions. The world is especially aware of this fact after facing threats such as the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. In a very recent publication in ACS Materials Letters, researchers from the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) and Hospital de Sant Pau, both within the CIBER-BBN, have achieved a significant milestone in vaccine development. Their study, conducted in partnership with international teams as well as NANBIOSIS, has introduced a novel immunization approach utilizing synthetic protein secretory granules.
These protein materials, developed by the team and highlighted in the study, exhibit endocrine-like functionalities tailored for the sustained release of protein drugs in oncology. At the microscale, these self-organized, self-contained protein granules undergo a spontaneous disintegration process associated with secretion, releasing their protein building blocks under physiological conditions. This technology, developed in collaboration with NANBIOSIS units, particularly the Protein Production Platform (Unit 1) and Nanotoxicology (Unit 18), holds promise beyond oncology, extending to various biomedical applications.
A promising solution to address not only existing infectious diseases but also future emerging threats.
In their work published last February 2024 [1], the researchers explored the potential of these synthetic protein secretory granules as an antigen delivery system for SARS-CoV-2. Thus, by utilizing a recombinant form of the virus’s receptor-binding domain, they investigated its efficacy in inducing neutralizing antibody responses in mice. Notably, the granules were administered without adjuvants, demonstrating their ability to trigger potent antivirus neutralizing responses.
The implications of this study are profound. Beyond the immediate context of COVID-19, this innovative immunization platform opens doors to more efficient vaccine delivery methods. By reducing dosage, costs, and the complexity of vaccination regimens, it presents a promising solution to address not only existing infectious diseases but also future emerging threats.
The collaborative nature of this research underscores the importance of synergistic partnerships. Alongside local institutions such as CIBER-BBN, ICREA, Institut de Recerca from Hospital Vall d’Hebró, and Hospital de Sant Pau, international collaboration with the University of São Paulo in Brazil has enriched the study’s scope and insights.
Funding for this groundbreaking research was provided by AGAUR through project 2020PANDE00003, and by CIBER-BBN through Intramural Projects NANOSARS and NANOREMOTE. Such support highlights the societal and scientific significance of this endeavor, emphasizing its potential to shape the future of vaccination strategies.
This publication marks a significant step forward in the fight against infectious diseases, showcasing the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and driving us towards a safer, healthier future. One in which NANBIOSIS will certainly contribute with the undisputable expertise of its researchers.
The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).
In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.
NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:
This is part of a series of interviews to several female researchers within the context of International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024 and Woman’s Day 2024. For more interviews, visit our news section here.
March 2024, I3A-Unizar, Zaragoza (Spain)
The meeting room of the High Performance Computing cluster is a comfortable place. A whiteboard full of diagrams occupies a good portion of one of the side walls, creating a welcoming atmosphere where complex concepts become accessible. In stark contrast, a long table is presided over by a large screen and a video call system, making it clear that the boundaries of this place extend beyond its modest size.
The meeting has just ended. It has been intense. In it, the members of NANBIOSIS Unit 27 have given us a comprehensive update on their work. Although our background is more focused on the biomedical aspect, the explanation has been so didactic that we have ended up feeling like part of something much, much larger. Theirs is a work full of versatility and possibilities, only limited by the immense computing power of their machines and the indisputable brilliance of their staff.
Ana Mincholé, one of the team members, waits for the interview to begin. She has already expressed her nervousness to me but, without intending to question her word, I believe she underestimates herself. She was able to open our eyes during that complex meeting, along with the rest of the team, allowing an audience with little computational background to understand the endless possibilities of their equipment. This is a piece of cake for her.
The interview begins.
What motivated you to choose a career in science?
“I’m not sure if science chose me, or if humanities rejected me. I’ve always found physics and mathematics much more entertaining than humanities subjects.”
Interesting… Usually children tend to think that mathematics is very difficult, that physics is very boring… etc.
“It’s a bit strange. I felt more creative solving problems and looking for different ways to solve them, rather than in humanities subjects that I… um (laughs), when I thought I had done something great, they would tell me that… well, that it wasn’t (laughs again). I always knew that I was more into science than humanities disciplines. I liked it more.”
From the beginning, you felt that what they were teaching you in mathematics and physics was more natural for you.
“Yes, the typical problems such as ‘a train leaves from somewhere at such a speed of…’, I found them much more entertaining.”
Could you share with us a little about your research area and the projects you are currently working on?
“In general, my research focuses on the assessment of sudden cardiac death risk in patients with cardiovascular diseases. We work with patients who have suffered heart attacks, cardiomyopathies (heart defects), or patients with bradycardia who need pacemakers. We evaluate the risks using the electrocardiogram, which measures the electrical activity of the heart, and in my case, also through computational models. These are virtual replicas of a patient’s heart that include all their clinical information, and you can evaluate them under different scenarios and see how they respond.”
Does this have to do with the ‘Digital Twins’? That is, replicating on a computer what happens to a person and seeing how the conditions you apply affect them.
“Yes, that’s it. In the case of the heart, for example, we can emulate cardiac anatomy through magnetic resonance images, then you can include fibrotic areas, infarcted areas, electrical dynamics… and with all this, you can simulate the electrical activity of a heart.”
So, not only can you mimic a healthy heart, but also a diseased one.
“That’s right. In hearts, there are always some areas that activate spontaneously. Normally this poses no danger, but in those hearts that already have some arrhythmogenic substrate, meaning that they have some type of previous pathology such as infarcted or fibrotic areas, those activations can cause an arrhythmia.”
What have been the greatest challenges you have faced as a woman in the field of scientific research?
“What a complicated question! There are so many challenges you face simply as a researcher… Perhaps more as a woman? I could highlight that I am a mother of two children, and research is always something that is constantly moving. Facing maternity, personally, I had a lot of plans and I told myself that I wouldn’t leave anything behind. I believed that, as soon as I felt better, I would start doing things, reading articles… but life with a newborn is what it is, and in the end, you don’t do it. And you have that fear and you start to wonder things such as ‘What happened during all this time?’, ‘Will I be able to catch up?’. “
So, I understand that you think the measures that are already in place are insufficient.
“Of course. The thing is research never stops. Science keeps advancing, with or without you. And although in the end it’s not that big of a deal, it’s a feeling you constantly have. Research is a bit strange: on one hand, you have a lot of flexibility, but at the same time, you never really disconnect. Deadlines come, and if you have to work on the weekend, you do it. Or maybe there is that Tuesday in which nothing has come out right, and at night you keep thinking about why the experiment you did in the morning didn’t work out. You keep coming up with ideas, and never really stop thinking about it.”
It is interesting what you’re saying because that applies to a lot of research fields. One might think that in the case of in silico experiments it would not be as bad as, for example, people working with animal models.
“Well, in our field of in silico experiments, you always encounter an error right on Friday before leaving work (laughs). Although during my master’s, I worked on a more experimental project, and it’s true that it’s a whole different level: If something doesn’t work out, you have to wait until it finishes, and I think in that sense, it’s much more demanding.”
Have you experienced any kind of gender bias or added difficulty in your scientific career? How have you addressed this situation?
“I feel like I haven’t faced a significant bias because of being a woman. Also, I’ve felt supported in all the research groups I’ve been part of. It’s true that in some fields, certain attitudes like paternalism and condescension arise because of being young and a woman. But young people stop being young… and women never stop being women (laughs). In those cases, you have to demonstrate that you know what you know, which adds pressure.”
There are fields and careers where there are many more women than men. This is the case for the more ‘bio’ careers. How do you see parity in your field?
“In my field, there’s quite a gender parity. Moreover, in all the groups I’ve worked with, there’s been a fair balance between men and women. I won’t deny that the further you advance in the research career, the more gender bias there is. Generally, there are more men in leadership positions than women, and women tend to have a harder time too. In my case, I haven’t personally experienced any gender bias. I’m lucky to be able to collaborate with people who add value. And with those who don’t, there’s no need for us to collaborate.”
How do you think these barriers can be overcome?
“Visibility. It has worked in other areas. I, being a bit older, remember not long ago when we had a female Minister of Defense, and there were those who were shocked. And nowadays, we don’t give it importance anymore. The visibility of women in science is constantly increasing. An example is the researcher behind the Oxford/Astra Zeneca COVID vaccine, whose presence in the media was quite prominent. We see it more and more often.”
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in science?
“I would tell them to go for it, that it’s a very rewarding career with plenty of opportunities. Sometimes, I think there’s a lack of female role models in science and also in other sectors. This is because even when there’s a mixed team working behind the scenes, the predominant presence of male figures gives a biased picture. And I believe it’s important to convey that science isn’t just for men.”
“(I) design and work on a research line that combines computational models with cardiac signals and images. This was done with the aim of stratifying arrhythmic risk and understanding its mechanisms.“
—Dr. Ana Mincholé, researcher at Unit 27.
Have you had any ‘Eureka’ moments in your career? What do you consider to be your greatest achievement or contribution in your field on a professional or personal level?
“Luckily in research, you have quite a few ‘Eureka’ moments. And thank goodness for that! Because there are also many frustrating moments that require a lot of effort and work. Thus when something finally works out, it’s very satisfying. But you have to constantly deal with ups and downs.
As for my greatest achievements, at the end of my PhD, we managed to develop a novel biomarker that was closely related to arrhythmic risk. That was a real high. Something more recent could be to design and work on a research line that combines computational models with cardiac signals and images. This was done with the aim of stratifying arrhythmic risk and understanding its mechanisms. I’m not sure if I would define it as an achievement, but it’s a line of work that I’m particularly proud of.”
Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years? And where do you see this technology?
“In the future, I imagine Digital Twins technology being more integrated into clinical practice, with tangible benefits for patients. I think, at the moment, it’s more used at the research level and needs better explanation to understand its potential. But I’m convinced that this technology will be very useful in clinical settings, and I would like to be present when that happens.
Digital Twins of the heart are detailed virtual replicas that incorporate clinical information and specific measurements from each patient in addition to how the heart functions. They are very self-explanatory, and they answer the question of ‘why’ something happens, providing possible explanations for what is going on. Although these models are very descriptive, I don’t see them as incompatible with other types of models, such as artificial intelligence-based solely on data.
In the case of Digital Twins, behaviors and dynamics are introduced, making them much more explanatory. Furthermore, they are multiscale models that cover everything from the cellular level to propagation through cardiac tissue and the torso, even simulating the patient’s electrocardiogram. These multiscale models allow for personalized therapies and specific assessment of arrhythmic risk for each individual.”
How do you think we can encourage more women and girls to participate in science?
“I have participated in initiatives that are fantastic for explaining different professional experiences to people who have to choose a career. I also believe that we need to give visibility to science; not only from the perspective of research, but by showing all the possibilities that pursuing a career in science offers. I think, in the end, one has to choose the career they like the most, and then they can always redirect their decisions to work in what motivates them at each stage of life. The important thing is to decide to do things that fulfill you, motivate you, and do them well.
For example, I studied Physics and never imagined doing a PhD. Then, I went on Erasmus, ended up doing a master’s, and during the master’s thesis project, I discovered that biomedical research fascinated me and fulfilled me. So, I ended up doing a PhD. Life takes you places, and the important thing is to do things that bring you fulfillment and that you enjoy.”
Thank you very much Ana for your time.
“Thanks a lot, to you.”
For more interviews like this, visit our news section here.
The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).
In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.
NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:
This is part of a series of interviews to several female researchers within the context of International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024 and Woman’s Day 2024. For more interviews, visit our news section here.
March 2024, IQAC-CSIC, Barcelona (Spain)
Dr. Susana Vílchez, an esteemed researcher in colloidal chemistry, and the technical and quality manager of Unit 12 of NANBIOSIS, offers a profound insight into her research endeavors and career trajectory. Specializing in the characterization of colloidal systems such as micelles, vesicles, emulsions, and more, her current focus lies on the intriguing realm of water-in-water emulsions and the formation of microcoacervates, serving as a model for membraneless organelles (MLO) by introducing DNA into these emulsions. As we delve into her motivations, achievements, and challenges within the scientific domain, Dr. Vílchez sheds light on the gender biases prevalent in her field and offers invaluable perspectives on fostering gender equality in science. Through her experiences and unwavering dedication, she inspires young women to pursue their scientific aspirations while advocating for broader inclusivity and recognition of women’s contributions in shaping the scientific landscape.
Could you share with us a bit about your research area and the projects you are currently working on?
“My research area is colloidal chemistry, specifically the characterization of colloidal systems such as micelles, vesicles, emulsions, gels, liquid crystals, etc. One of the projects I’m working on involves water-in-water emulsions and the formation of microcoacervates by adding DNA to these emulsions. These microcoacervates can be used as a model for so-called membraneless organelles (MLO).”
What motivated you to choose a career in research?
“Since I was little, I’ve always liked knowing the reason behind things. I remember I really enjoyed a series of cartoons that dealt with the human body, as well as other TV shows like ‘El hombre y la Tierra’ (The Man and the Earth) and ‘El mundo submarino’ (The Underwater World).”
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement or contribution in your field?
“I have contributed to the training of undergraduate and master’s degree students. I have tried to help them see their potential to develop as future scientists.”
Have you experienced any gender bias or added difficulties in your scientific career? How have you addressed this situation?
“Within my area of research, there has been more support for the scientific careers of men than women. Men are attributed greater capability while women are seen as putting in more effort. To address this situation, I have tried to educate myself in areas that help me better develop my work, such as improving my communication skills, learning to manage stress, and becoming more resilient.”
How do you think gender stereotypes in the scientific field can be overcome?
“To overcome gender stereotypes in the scientific field, I believe we should approach the issue as a whole, from all sides. Firstly, we should strive to eliminate bias in education, both at the family level and in primary and secondary education. Secondly, we should avoid perpetuating gender stereotypes through media, social networks, video games, etc.”
What changes would you like to see in the scientific world to promote gender equality?
“I would like to see more support for women’s scientific careers. Despite policies aimed at reducing inequalities between men and women in the scientific world, men still predominantly occupy leadership positions. I would like to see greater inclusion of women to motivate them to pursue their scientific careers.”
“I would advise (young women) to pursue their dreams, to show others what they are capable of, and not to let themselves be underestimated.“
—Dr. Susana Vílchez, technical and quality manager of Unit 12.
What advice would you give to young women who are considering pursuing a career in science?
“I would advise them to pursue their dreams, to show others what they are capable of, and not to let themselves be underestimated. Our goals and purpose in life can be achieved with perseverance and effort.”
How do you think we can encourage more women and girls to participate in science?
“By promoting awareness in schools and high schools about the importance of science for society. I would also advocate for more scientific outreach programs in the media, television, radio, etc. Additionally, I believe it’s crucial to highlight the contributions of women in science, providing girls with female role models in the scientific world.”
For more interviews like this, visit our news section here.
The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).
In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.
NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:
1 March 2024, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute/ICMAB-CSIC (Barcelona)
Lysosomal Storage Diseases (LSDs) encompass a group of rare disorders caused by mutations in lysosomal proteins. These mutations can lead to dysfunctional proteins responsible for breaking down cellular materials, resulting in the accumulation of deposits. Such accumulations can manifest in various neurological symptoms, ranging from progressive neurodegeneration to severe cognitive impairment. Often emerging in childhood, LSDs tragically culminate in premature death for many patients.
Currently, up to 14 subtypes of LSDs can be treated using Enzyme Replacement Therapy (ERT). This therapy involves repeated intravenous administrations of non-mutated proteins to replace the dysfunctional protein that the patient naturally produces. However, this treatment modality is effective only for diseases caused by enzyme mutations. Moreover, intravenously administered enzymes often fail to reach the brain, leaving patients with neurological manifestations of LSDs untreated.
In response to this, the Clinical Biochemistry, Drug Delivery & Therapy (CB-DDT) group at VHIR (in which the Unit 20 of NANBIOSIS is integrated) is playing a pivotal role in acknowledging this issue. Our researchers are pioneering the use of Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) to deliver functional lysosomal proteins to affected cells and organs. EVs, which are tiny particles naturally utilized by cells for intercellular communication, offer a promising avenue as drug delivery systems. The project, which will culminate this year 2024, aims to engineer EVs for enhanced protein delivery and selectivity. This potentially addresses LSDs with a neurological manifestation, and allows to more effectively reach key affected organs, like in the case of heart and kidneys in Fabry disease [1]. Moreover, this technique could also set the stage for treatments aiming to address LSDs caused by transporter deficiencies, another remaining challenge of these dreaded genetic conditions.
The results of this fruitful collaboration between Units 6 and 20 have derived in the generation of our “Enzyme-loaded Nanovesicles” service, one of the flagship Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions of NANBIOSIS.
Additionally, the CB-DDT group is collaborating with the NANOMOL group at ICMAB, home of NANBIOSIS Unit 6. Thanks to this collaboration, the researchers managed to explore the use of liposomes, a type of synthetic nanoparticle, as a targeted therapeutic vehicle to enhance ERT effectiveness.
The results of this fruitful collaboration between Units 6 and 20 have derived in the generation of our “Enzyme-loaded Nanovesicles” service, one of the flagship Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions of NANBIOSIS. This allows our clients to precisely load enzymes into nanovesicles, which can be applied in targeted therapies for various disorders. This service includes direct applications in many rare diseases, but it can be expanded to any application that requires a well-defined nanovesicle. You can check more information about this Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solution here.
The ongoing research and multiple collaborations hold promise not only for improving current therapies but also for expanding treatment options for LSD patients. This could potentially offer hope where there was previously none. As the collaboration between VHIR and ICMAB continues to yield groundbreaking insights, the future of LSD treatment appears increasingly optimistic.
This article is in the context of Rare Disease Day 2024. To stay up to date, visit our news section here.
The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).
In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions, place your request here.
NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:
But dont worry, we will help you get back on the track. Perhaps you could...