The bilateral initiative "New CARTs", supported by the EEA Grants, comes to an end following an important collaboration between Dr. Sébastien Wälchli's group from Oslo University Hospital, specialized in the development of immunotherapeutic products, and Dr. Celso A. Reis's group from the Institute of Pathology and Molecular Immunology at the University of Porto/Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, which stands out for its unique expertise in glycoimmunology and glycobiology applied to cancer treatment.
Launched in 2020, the project brought together Portuguese and Norwegian researchers to discuss and explore the application of glycobiology in oncology and immunology. Throughout the collaboration, several mutual visits were made, culminating in the creation of new antibodies and CART cells, now in the exploration phase for potential use as diagnostic and therapeutic tools. In addition to the scientific advancements, the project significantly contributed to strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries, promoting the exchange of knowledge, the formation of a shared innovation network, and fostering long-term scientific collaboration. The discoveries made within this bilateral initiative hold great potential to transform therapeutic approaches in oncology, especially in the treatment of solid tumors.
This project was funded by the EEA Grants Fund for Bilateral Relations, which played a crucial role in the development of this important international collaboration. The funding from the EEA Grants enabled not only significant progress in scientific research but also the strengthening of relations between Portugal and Norway, with results that will open doors to the future of science and medicine