A total of 2,666 proposals were submitted to the first SME (Small Medium Enterprises) Instrument Calls within the European Commission´s newly established Research and Innovation Framework Program Horizon 2020. 155 projects from 21 countries were selected for funding of a phase I feasibility study. Each project receives €50,000 to perform a feasibility study and to prepare a Phase 2 application, which, if granted, may result in additional funding.
“With a success rate of 6 percent, we are pleased to have been selected in competition with many other highly qualified companies. The focus is now on reaching the targets set for phase 1 and on preparing for a clinical trial in project phase 2,” says Mrs Petra Apell, Regional Manager at XVIVO Perfusion.
The goal of the project is to identify biomarkers and medical device products that can further improve the evaluation of lungs using Ex Vivo Lung Perfusion (EVLP). Lung transplantation is the only therapeutic option for selected patients suffering from end-stage lung diseases. 80 percent of all donated lungs are not used for transplantation. The main reason is uncertainty regarding the function and quality of the lung. EVLP is a technique used to assess the quality of donated lungs prior to transplantation. EVLP could potentially lead to an increase in the utilization rate of donated lungs from today´s 20 percent to 40-60 percent. Validated and objective parameters to evaluate lung functions during EVLP are expected to improve clinical outcomes in lung transplantation after EVLP.
“We are delighted that the European Commission has decided to support this project financially. New biomarkers may lead to continued development and expansion of the organ perfusion market,” says Dr Magnus Nilsson, CEO of XVIVO Perfusion.
September 19, 2014
Gothenburg
XVIVO Perfusion AB (publ)
Magnus Nilsson
CEO