EU FET Open PRIME project brings together partners from across Europe into a strong multi-disciplinary team. Today we meet the team at Tampere University, Finland.
Who are the researchers at Tampere University?
We are three junior researchers from Tampere University working on PRIME project. We are part of two research groups, with Taina Viheriälä, PhD and Lassi Sukki, MTech working in Micro- and Nanosystems Research Group led by prof. Pasi Kallio and PhD student Lotta Isosaari, MSc in Neurogroup led by senior research fellow Susanna Narkilahti. Though working in separate research groups, we work simultaneously and maintain close collaboration, working together to achieve the shared goals of the project.
What are you currently working on in PRIME and what are your aims?
The main aim for us in PRIME is to develop an encapsulating, porous, and implantable device focusing on its hosting properties for engineered retinal cells (ARPE-19) and its suitability with neuronal cells. We have used commercially available polyethersulfone (PES) hollow fiber tubes but Lassi is currently working on developing alternative materials and fabrication methods for the PES hollow fiber tubes. We focus on the properties of the device such as its transparency and biocompatibility to fit the criteria of its intended use.
The device must host engineered ARPE-19 cells that produce Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (GDNF) which eventually is the crucial key in suppressing the epileptic seizures. Taina is working with the GDNF-producing ARPE-19 cells with her main aim to find the optimal conditions for the cells to survive inside the device. For example, she is using a nanocellulose-based hydrogel to form a supportive scaffold for the cells to ensure the vitality of the cells. We collaborate with other PRIME partners, such as UNIFE in Italy and RSCI in Ireland, where the tolerability of the device will be tested in vivo using rat and mouse models. Therefore, it is essential to identify the optimal parameters that ensure cell survival within the device when implanted in the brain.
Since epilepsy is a condition arising from the neuronal brain tissue, one of the objectives of PRIME is to develop an in vitro model of epilepsy. Lassi is currently working on to modify the existing in vitro platform whereas Lotta is focusing on utilizing kainic acid with human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neurons to study epilepsy in vitro. Our next steps include the combination of the hollow fiber tubes, engineered GDNF-producing ARPE-19 cells, and iPSC-derived neurons to deepen our understanding of epilepsy and to study the concept of the PRIME project in a controlled environment.
Pictured Lassi Sukki, MTech and Taina Viheriälä, PhD.
Have you had any particular achievements/breakthroughs to date?
We have made substantial progress in developing the implantable device and optimizing its conditions. Notably, we have successfully integrated engineered cells into the nanocellulose-based hydrogel scaffold, a critical milestone for maintaining cell viability and functionality within the device. Additionally, significant progress has been made in fabricating novel transparent hollow fiber tubes. While creating the hollow structure is relatively straightforward, optimizing and verifying the porosity remains a challenge. Although the current results are highly promising, there is still a lot more optimization to do.
In the conducted hiPSC-derived neuron studies, we have revealed novel kainic acid-mediated responses in human neurons in vitro. These findings represent a promising step forward in developing more accurate, human-derived in vitro models for epilepsy research. All these achievements are crucial for ensuring that the cells can effectively sense and respond to epilepsy biomarkers.
What impact will working on PRIME have on your career / what opportunities will it extend?
Working on PRIME has a significant impact on our careers by offering valuable opportunities to expand our expertise and professional development. Being involved in the development of an implantable device for treating epilepsy provides a unique experience in translational research, narrowing the gap between laboratory science and the real-world medical applications. Additionally, collaborating with a diverse team of experts within the PRIME project will expand our professional network, opening opportunities for future collaborations, research projects, and potential career advancements. Working as a member of PRIME, will definitely impact positively to the future trajectory of our careers.
Pictured Lotta Isosaari, MSc
What excites you the most about this project?
The concept and innovative approach of the PRIME project are very exciting. The opportunity to be part of a groundbreaking effort that has the potential to significantly improve the lives of people with epilepsy. The idea of developing an implantable device that can sense and control seizures in real time is incredibly innovative and represents a major leap forward in the treatment of this condition. We find the PRIME project both challenging and inspiring. It is exciting to think that the work we do could lead to a new standard of care for epilepsy. Moreover, it has been fascinating to witness how researchers and experts from diverse fields have put together their knowledge and expertise to work toward a shared goal. This not only enriches the project but also enhances our ability to tackle complex challenges from multiple angles.
Tampere University is one of several multi-disciplinary European partners working on the PRIME project, funded by the European Commission’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation programme. The PRIME project aims to prevent epileptic seizures by developing autonomous implantable living cell systems for the brain.
Led by Walton Institute at South East Technological University, EU FET OPEN PRIME project’s consortium of European partners is made up of Tampere University Finland, Università degli Studi di Ferrara Italy, EPOS-IASIS Cyprus, Aarhus University Denmark, omiics Denmark and Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) in Ireland.
