The cell therapy REMaST, developed by Hemera for the regeneration of nervous tissue in spinal cord injuries, was the focus of a dedicated report on TG3 Leonardo, the Italian public broadcaster’s science and technology program.
The segment highlighted the innovative scientific rationale developed by Hemera’s founding scientists behind the therapeutic platform under development, which is based on the study of the interactions between the immune system and tissue repair processes. The preclinical data package, available as a preprint in Immunity by Cell Press and scheduled for publication in the upcoming February issue, focuses on macrophages, immune cells involved in regulating inflammatory responses and the tissue microenvironment.
During the interview, Ilaria Decimo, Head of Research & Development and co-founder of Hemera, commented on the preclinical findings:
“We generated these cells with regenerative properties and introduced them into damaged nervous tissue. In preclinical models, we observed signs of microenvironment remodeling, axonal regrowth, and tissue revascularization.”
This means that in experimental tests conducted in animal models of severe spinal cord injury were observed signs of functional motor recovery and reactivation of nervous tissue repair processes. The data also indicate a favorable safety profile, providing an important basis for progression toward clinical testing in humans.
Moving toward clinical development
Hemera is now preparing to initiate a first-in-human clinical study of REMaST, a key milestone marking the transition from preclinical research to clinical validation in humans.
As emphasized during the interview by Francesco Bifari, Director of Therapy Development and co-founder of Hemera, the translational potential of the technology extends to additional applications:
“These regenerative macrophages show potential applications in a variety of conditions characterized by neuronal damage, including traumatic injuries and ischemic diseases of the central nervous system.”
The nationwide broadcast of the TG3 Leonardo feature helps bring to public attention a significant advance in immuno-centered regenerative medicine research, supporting a broader understanding of the pathway from preclinical development to potential clinical application.