SECRET PROJECT KICKS OFF AT CREM: EUROPEAN RESEARCHERS GATHER IN BRESCIA

In late May 2025, Brescia’s Eugenia Menni Research Centre (CREM) at Fondazione Poliambulanza hosted the kick-off meeting for the SECRET project, an ambitious European initiative exploring the therapeutic potential of perinatal cell secretomes. Around 20 participants, including doctoral candidates and international partners, convened to launch this interdisciplinary research programme under Horizon Europe – Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions.

The SECRET concept emerged at CREM over two decades ago and focuses on the biochemical output—secretomes—of placenta-derived cells. These secretomes are rich in anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and regenerative molecules, showing promise in treating cardiovascular and neurological conditions.

The initiative is coordinated by Prof. Ornella Parolini of Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Rome, with CREM serving as a scientific partner and host for several PhD students. A cross-European network of institutions is involved, including partners from:

• Italian universities (Genova; G. D’Annunzio University of Chieti–Pescara)

• German, Belgian, Portuguese, and Dutch academic centres

• Swiss and Portuguese research hospitals

• Innovative SMEs such as Mimetas (NL) and Innovation Acta (Italy), supporting tech transfer and innovation pathways

This doctoral network will recruit 10 early‑career researchers, equipping them with expertise in cellular biology, tissue engineering, biomaterials, and preclinical modelling for placenta-cell secretome formulations.

The kick-off meeting established the scientific and training roadmaps, marking the official start of a four-year programme focused on translating basic research into regenerative clinical applications.

Why this matters for medical tourists:

• Access to cutting-edge science: Care from professionals at the forefront of regenerative medicine.

• Advanced clinical pathways: SECRET could enable novel therapies for neurological and cardiovascular disorders.

• Integration of research and treatment: Hospital-based innovation ensures that scientific progress reaches patients.

• International collaboration: Multinational expertise enhances the quality and impact of research.

Fondazione Poliambulanza remains a hub of truly global medical innovation, offering international patients not just expert care, but a chance to engage with promising regenerative therapies in the making.

References: Poliambulanza News