At the heart of DRIVE-RM are three research domains — each focused on a different scale of regeneration: from cells, to tissues, to complex organs.
They are closely connected and supported by two cross-cutting hubs that bring in advanced technology and clinical expertise. Together, they give our consortium the tools and insight needed to turn bold ideas into real regenerative strategies.
Building on past success
Capitalizing on the successful Materials-Driven Regeneration programme (NWO Gravitation Programme), the NWO Summit grant will allow the consortium to realise a quantum leap in groundbreaking interdisciplinary research, pioneering RM technology, competitive RM leadership development, and international visibility to durably impact the RM field at a global scale.
We will unravel the key signals and interactions that control cell function, self assembly, and multicellular organisation, so we will be able to mimic these using materials.
Domain 1 will ensure that we progress the RM knowledgebase to achieve breakthroughs, such as creating materials that sense and adapt evolving demands and disease conditions, for regenerating complex tissues and organ functions in domain 2 and 3.
Our approach
Understanding environmental control of cell function and multicellular organisation
We will map the natural cellular matrix environment, using state-of-the-art technologies. Combined with material manipulations using real-time control of cellular regenerative function, we will be able to unravel the dynamic reciprocity between cells and their environment.
Digitising and predicting dynamic reprocity between cells and their environment
Using a data-driven approach, we link material properties to biological responses — allowing us to predict and influence how cells respond to intelligent biomaterials. We will generate large data sets that will be maintained in a centralised Materials Atlas. The data will be mined using machine learning algorithms to discover design-rules for materials that guide regeneration.
Domain 2
In-situ tissue regeneration
Our goal
At the tissue level, regeneration happens through constant interaction between materials and the body. This domain studies those spatio-temporal, bidirectional processes — from immune response to neo-tissue formation and growth.
We investigate how materials behave under pathological conditions and focus on in-situ regeneration of cardiovascular and musculoskeletal tissues.
Our approach
In-situ cardiovascular regeneration
We aim at 'one material fits all' solutions, by developing materials that dynamically adapt to patient characteristics and risk profies. We target outstanding challenges on how to guide tissue layeredness, vasomotion, connectivity, growth, remodelling, and mechanical homeostasis in in-situ engineered vascular grafts and heartvalves under hemodynamic conditions. Additionally, we target the in-situ regeneration of vascular beds, common to all tissues and organs.
In-situ musculoskeletal regeneration
We investigate materials-driven durable regeneration of bones, cartilage and intervertebral discs, with a focus on transformative materials and biofabrication technologies to steer form and function of tissues in interaction with the immune system. Particular focus lies on regeneration of heterogenous border zones between hard and soft tissues.
Domain 3
Regenerating complex organ functions
Our goal
Some organs have the capacity to regenerate — others don’t. This domain looks at how to re-awaken that regenerative potential using materials that work with the body’s own mechanisms. We study regeneration in the heart and kidneys, drawing insights from model organisms, developmental biology, organoids and synthetic embryo-like structures. Our goal is to understand and steer these processes in complex, living systems, using intelligent materials.
Our approach
Inspired by nature: understanding regeneration of complex organ functions
We study regeneration in the heart and kidneys, drawing insights from model organisms that have effective organ regeneration such as zebrafish, axolotl and spiny mouse. We will also learn from developmental biology, organoids and synthetic embryo-like structures.
Endogenous cardiac regeneration
We build on our recent understanding of mechanims that play a role in the multifaceted regeneration process of the heart. We aim to fully unravel cell-cell interactions, inflamation control and scar resolution as the next step.
Regenerating essential kidney functions
We will integrate our extensive knowledge on organoids, material design, biofabrication and bioengineering to move to a full understanding and control of kidney organoids. Combined with our knowledge on tubule morphogenesis and vascularisation we will be able to really push the limits of kidney regeneration in-situ.
Hub
Technological Innovation
Ensures continuous access to top-notch technology and advancements.
Our shared infrastructure connects researchers across institutions to cutting-edge tools in regenerative biology, engineering and medicine.
By making expertise and technologies accessible, we accelerate discovery and keep the entire programme at the forefront of innovation.
The hub will continuously fuel the consortium with high-end technological innovations, such as facilities for cell, organoid and tissue culture, advanced microscopy, in-situ bioprinting, agent-based predictive modelling and single-cell multi-omics approaches.
Hub
Clinical Translation
Proactively lays the groundwork for translating DRIVE-RM’s findings to benefit society.
The hub will embed expertise on translational, ethical, economic, legal and societal aspects (TEELSA) into every phase of the research.
Creation of a TEELSA platform will enable us to evaluate risks and unexpected benefits of selected innovations, navigate regulatory guidelines and initiate a broader discussion in society on the development and use of RM technologies.
By aligning science with societal needs from the start, we turn breakthrough ideas into real-world therapies — faster, safer, and with lasting impact.
