GeneH: Excellence Hub for Advancing Innovation in Gene Therapy
Programme:
Horizon Europe
The GeneH project is designed to accelerate the development and implementation of gene therapy, particularly in the field of rare genetic diseases. Its aim is to adopt a holistic approach—based on the quadruple helix model—to connect key stakeholders: research institutions, industry, healthcare professionals, regulatory bodies, and civil society. By doing so, the project lays the foundation for a more efficient translation of scientific breakthroughs into clinical practice.
Despite significant progress in research, many challenges remain: a limited number of clinical trials, complex regulatory procedures, lack of specialized infrastructure, and insufficient funding. The GeneH project seeks to address these barriers through targeted and effective measures.
Project objectives:
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Interdisciplinary collaboration: Strengthening connections between scientists, industry, healthcare providers, regulators, and patients.
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Research and development innovation: Aligning scientific achievements with market and societal needs.
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Clinical translation: Enabling faster and safer transfer of innovations into clinical practice for real patient benefit.
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Sustainable funding: Attracting public and private investments to ensure long-term stability in the gene therapy field.
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Education and training: Developing programs for researchers and healthcare professionals to enhance expertise and capacity.
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Regulatory compliance and ethics: Establishing robust, safe, and ethical frameworks for the development and application of new therapies.
By integrating all these dimensions, the GENEH project will make a significant contribution to the advancement of innovative solutions and strengthen Europe’s leadership in gene therapy—particularly for the benefit of patients who are still awaiting effective treatments.
Project partners
Slovenia:
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Regional Development Agency of the Ljubljana Urban Region (RRA LUR)
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Slovenian Association for Rare Diseases (ZOPS)
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BioSistemika d.o.o.
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Slovenian Innovation Hub, European Economic Interest Grouping (SIS EGIZ)
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National Institute of Chemistry (KI)
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JAFRAL d.o.o.
Portugal:
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University of Coimbra (UC)
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Portuguese Association for Hereditary Ataxias (APAHE)
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Biocant (Biotechnology Innovation Park)
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Bluepharma — Indústria Farmacêutica, SA
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Commission for Coordination and Regional Development (CCDR)
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Pedro Nunes Institute (IPN)
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Local Health Unit Coimbra (ULS Coimbra)
Financing:
Total budget: 4,885,375,00 EUR
Budget for RRA LUR: 140,000,00 EUR
Project duration:
1 Januar 2025 – 31 December 2028
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