ICVS researcher Belém Sampaio-Marques has been recognized in the iProof – Technology Acceleration Programme, promoted by TecMinho, for her project “Brain-targeting liposomal delivery of MSCs-derived secretome for Parkinson’s Disease treatment” (LIPOSEC4PD).
The iProof competition, which aims to accelerate innovative technologies developed at the University of Minho, received 32 applications, of which 13 advanced to the final stage. Five projects were selected as winners, three in Domain 1 – Health, Biotechnology, Food Technology and Agriculture – and two in Domain 2 – Information Technology, Electronics and Communication; Energy, Environment and Construction; Transport, Safety and Industrial Processes.
The selected project was awarded funding of up to €10,000, which will support the implementation of the proposed activities, strengthening the validation and valorization potential of the developed technology.
Parkinson’s disease still lacks disease-modifying therapies capable of halting neurodegeneration. This project aims to develop a novel brain-targeted therapeutic strategy by combining stem cell-derived bioactive factors with advanced nanotechnology. By using lactoferrin-functionalized liposomes to efficiently cross the blood–brain barrier, this approach is designed to protect vulnerable dopaminergic neurons and slow disease progression.
Projects were evaluated based on their degree of novelty, expected impact, ability to respond to market needs, as well as the adequacy of the work plan, budget, and team qualifications. Evaluation was conducted by an external panel of experts with recognized competence in their respective fields.
The iProof programme supports the winning projects with a total investment of €50,000, contributing to the valorisation of research results from the University of Minho and fostering the development of products and services with high value for both the market and society. The initiative is supported by the UI-Transfer 2.0 project, co-financed by COMPETE 2030, Portugal 2030, and the European Union.
