Ljubljana – On Monday, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Igor Papič and Director of the National Institute of Chemistry Gregor Anderluh signed a co-financing agreement for the Center for Gene and Cell Therapy Technologies. This center aims to expedite the development of gene therapy treatments for diseases, with the European Commission providing 15 million euros in non-repayable funds through the European Widening – Teaming for Excellence initiative.
The project’s total budget is 30 million euros, with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation contributing the remaining funds. The Center for Gene and Cell Therapy Technologies, currently operating within the National Institute of Chemistry, will move to new premises on the institute’s site, focusing on personalized treatment methods to give patients with rare diseases quicker access to therapies.
Anderluh emphasized the center’s significance for Slovenia, mentioning the development of gene replacement therapy for children with the neurodevelopmental CTNNB1 syndrome, currently in clinical trials. The therapy, named urbagen after a boy named Urban who was the first recipient, signifies a breakthrough in treatment. Minister Papič remarked that the establishment of the center will facilitate such initiatives, citing the expertise of Slovenian specialists while acknowledging the challenges in securing funding for these projects.
Construction of the new facilities for the Center for Gene and Cell Therapy Technologies is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, with full operational status anticipated by the end of 2029. (22 December)
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