The Innovation Pillar of the Biobank.cy Center of Excellence at the University of Cyprus has announced the inclusion of a pioneering nanotechnology invention in the latest innovation and business development cycle of Cyprus Seeds. This breakthrough paves the way for targeted treatments for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).

According to an official statement, the Cyprus Seeds program supports researchers in transforming scientific discoveries into innovative products with the potential to excel in both local and international markets through strategic investment and global networking.

The innovation is based on a patented nano-platform designed for the targeted delivery of drugs to TNBC cells, a breast cancer subtype that accounts for 15-20% of cases and lacks key diagnostic biomarkers. This technology is the result of research led by Dr. Giota Grigoriou, Senior Scientist at the Center of Excellence, with contributions from Dr. Grigoris Papagrigoriou, head of the research team, and the infrastructure of the Innovation Pillar at Biobank.cy.

The technology enables precise drug delivery to cancer cells, enhancing the effectiveness of therapeutic molecules while avoiding unintended interactions with healthy cells. As a result, it helps minimize the side effects typically associated with chemotherapy.

By ensuring more accurate drug targeting, this approach increases treatment efficacy while reducing the adverse effects commonly observed with conventional therapies that do not incorporate nanoparticles.

The research team is already applying this technology as a dynamic nano-platform to develop new drug delivery strategies for rare kidney diseases.

Professor Konstantinos Deltas, Medical and Molecular Genetics specialist and Director of the Biobank.cy Center of Excellence, emphasized the role of the Innovation Pillar’s advanced infrastructure in developing the nano-platform for therapeutic applications in nephrology.

At the same time, he highlighted the ongoing efforts to enhance this technology further, improving treatment outcomes for triple-negative breast cancer.

“The selection by Cyprus Seeds, for which we are grateful, marks a significant milestone and a testament to the potential of our research. Our collaboration with the dedicated Cyprus Seeds team is a step forward in translating scientific knowledge into solutions that advance human health—not only benefiting Cyprus but also making an impact on the global community,” Deltas stated.

Maria Markidou-Georgiadou, Managing Director of Cyprus Seeds, welcomed the project, noting that this is the first time the program is supporting a scientific team from Biobank.cy.

"Along with funding, the team will receive mentorship from experts in the U.S. and Greece, network with key stakeholders, and gain business training," she said.

"Our goal is to help researchers turn their discoveries into practical applications, addressing major challenges. In this case, the focus is on developing new treatments for breast cancer. We are proud to support pioneering research with real-world impact," she concluded.