Hemera is featured in the article published in Le Scienze (May issue), the Italian edition of Scientific American, one of the oldest and most authoritative international scientific magazines, focusing on the development of the REMaST® platform for spinal cord injury and its transition toward clinical development.
The article traces the scientific trajectory of the program, from the study of regenerative macrophages to the development of an advanced therapeutic approach based on reprogrammed autologous cells.
Regenerative macrophages and lesion microenvironment reprogramming
REMaST® is based on the use of reprogrammed autologous macrophages to modulate the lesion microenvironment and influence the biological processes that limit central nervous system regeneration.
As reported in the article, engineered macrophages act across multiple levels of tissue damage, contributing to the reorganization of the lesion microenvironment and supporting neural tissue repair processes, highlighting the multifactorial nature of the approach.
Hemera today: from preclinical validation to clinical transition
A key focus of the feature is the complexity of the transition from preclinical development to first-in-human studies, one of the most critical bottlenecks in advanced therapy development.
REMaST® is currently in this advanced translational phase, moving from preclinical research toward clinical development with the goal of initiating first-in-human trials.
As highlighted by Ilaria Decimo, R&D Director and co-founder of Hemera:
“It is not only about translating data from preclinical to clinical stages, but about building an integrated system in which biology, manufacturing, and regulatory strategy advance together from the earliest phases.”
In the context of ATMPs (Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products), for which REMaST® has held certification since 2022, this phase requires early integration between:
- biological rationale and mechanism of action
- GMP-compliant manufacturing quality
- clinical and regulatory strategy aligned with European Medicines Agency requirements
As emphasized in the article, Hemera’s approach lies in anticipating this integration early, reducing the gap between research and clinical development and strengthening the translational robustness of the program.
The article reflects the growing scientific and editorial interest in REMaST® and regenerative medicine strategies based on immune system modulation, an area increasingly central to the development of novel therapies for central nervous system disorders.
The article is available in the May issue of Le Scienze and in our updated press & media review, available for download here.