With an unwavering dedication to advancing cancer research and patient care, Dr. Marianna Prokopi Demetriades, a visionary biotech entrepreneur and Clinical Associate Professor in Research Oncology, has co-founded three dynamic biotech companies in Cyprus: RSL Revolutionary Labs Ltd, Promed Bioscience Ltd, and Theramir Ltd. Her remarkable journey has been marked by a string of prestigious awards, including the King's Distinguished Alumni Award and the Global WomenTech Award, showcasing her profound impact on the field.

In the following interview, Marianna delves into her groundbreaking work, notably the mediSKIN entrepreneurship innovation project, which unveiled a new line of innovative skincare products tailored to the unique needs of oncology patients. Furthermore, the biotech entrepreneur sheds light on the critical role of personalized medicine and targeted therapies in advancing patient care, and emphasizes the significance of interdisciplinary collaborations and compassion-driven research. Lastly, the innovator addresses her journey from academia to entrepreneurship, as well as the strategies that will enable Cyprus to create a vibrant ecosystem.

Thank you for your kind wishes. The mediSKIN entrepreneurship innovation project achieved remarkable success by developing within two years a novel atelocollagen-based formulation to address oncology patients' skincare needs during cancer treatment. This collaborative endeavor brought together three certified Cypriot start-ups, academic researchers from Cyprus University of Technology, and clinicians from the German Oncology Center. The team's shared vision and compassion fueled their progress, overcoming collaboration challenges through effective communication and mutual respect. Notable achievements during the project include the initiation of a clinical trial to assess the efficacy of mediSKIN and CollX3 in oncological wound healing (NCT05588973). RSL Revolutionary Labs received recognition, such as being a Falling Walls Finalist for the "Startup Breakthrough of the Year 2022," winning the Deloitte Middle East & Cyprus "Technology Fast 50 Impact" award, and being finalists at the TechIsland Awards 2023 and the European Wound Management Association Innovation Award 2023. The closing ceremony celebrated the project's accomplishments, unveiling a new line of innovative skincare products for oncology patients. The event showcased the powerful combination of empathy and innovation and garnered support from government officials and cancer advocates. RSL Revolutionary Labs, a dynamic start-up revolutionizing skincare, excelled in pushing boundaries and positively impacting patients' lives through the mediSKIN project. It exemplifies the significance of collaboration, compassion, and cutting-edge research in transforming healthcare.

The success of the mediSKIN project is poised to make a significant impact on cancer treatment and patient care, not only in Cyprus but also internationally. The innovative atelocollagen-based formulation caters to the unique skincare needs of oncology patients, mitigating and preventing undesirable side effects of cancer treatment, and improving their overall well-being throughout their journey. This breakthrough has the potential to enhance the quality of life for patients worldwide. The project's achievements have already garnered substantial interest from countries like Spain, Greece, Austria, Australia, and beyond. Medical professionals globally are likely to adopt these advancements, leading to more effective oncological wound healing and compassionate treatment approaches. Lessons from the diverse team dynamic, involving start-ups, academic researchers, and clinicians, serve as a model for future collaborations in the biotech industry and academia. Effective communication, especially with patients and associations, mutual respect, and shared compassion, as exemplified in mediSKIN, have the power to drive progress and innovation, fostering transformative outcomes for healthcare on a global scale.

My drive for cancer research stems from witnessing my family's challenges during their cancer journeys, fueling my passion to make a positive impact. As the co-founder of RSL Revolutionary Labs Ltd, Promed Bioscience Ltd, and Theramir Ltd, I recognize the significance of interdisciplinary collaborations in driving innovation. Our focus on personalized therapies, medical biomaterials, and dermaceuticals showcases potential for groundbreaking advancements when different fields unite to combat cancer. To fight cancer effectively, the scientific community should prioritize personalized medicine and targeted therapies. Tailoring treatments to individual patients, based on their unique genetic profile and disease characteristics, can increase efficacy and reduce side effects. Additionally, investing in cell therapies, early detection methods, and prevention technologies will further enhance treatment outcomes. The personal journeys of my family underscored the importance of empathy and a patient-centric approach in research and development. Their strength and resilience inspire my dedication to transforming healthcare through effective communication, mutual respect, and shared compassion. With this commitment, I am confident that we can make significant strides in the fight against cancer and other complex diseases, improving patient care and paving the way for a better future in oncology ultimately benefiting patients and their families.

As co-founder of Theramir, I strongly believe in the potential of personalized medicine for cancer treatment. Our company leads in developing personalized therapies and diagnostic platforms, utilizing nanotechnology and microRNAs. Theramir's contributions to customization and personalization of cancer treatment span multiple areas. Firstly, we focus on precision diagnostics by harnessing microRNAs to identify unique molecular signatures associated with different cancer types and individual patients. This allows us to tailor treatment strategies, precisely targeting each patient's cancer for more effective therapies. Secondly, we emphasize innovative drug delivery systems using nanotechnology. These targeted stem cell platforms deliver therapeutics directly to cancer cells, minimizing side effects and enhancing treatment efficacy while prioritizing patient safety. Moreover, we invest in understanding cancer biology and identifying new therapeutic targets. By unraveling cancer's complexities, we design personalized treatment regimens to address each patient's unique challenges. Through collaborations with healthcare providers and researchers, we gather comprehensive patient data to build robust and individualized treatment plans. Our commitment to personalized medicine aims to optimize cancer treatment, making a significant impact on patient outcomes and quality of life worldwide.

As a co-founder of multiple startups in Cyprus, I am intimately familiar with the ecosystem and its potential for growth. Strengthening academia-industry-government collaboration accelerates innovation, complemented by government support, funding, and incentives in biotechnology and nanotechnology for promising startups. Access to funding and venture capital remains critical, but by encouraging private investors to invest in local startups can significantly boost the ecosystem's financial resources. Cultivating a creative and entrepreneurial workforce through education is pivotal for long-term success, and we all need to take part on this. To enhance the reach of Cypriot startups, bolstering international collaboration and global partnerships is vital. Market launch support, guidance, and regulatory assistance facilitate startups' transition to broader markets. Implementing strong sales strategies drives revenue and attracts investors for continued success. Embracing these strategies will enable Cyprus to create a vibrant ecosystem, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship for lasting economic growth and impact.

Transitioning from academia to entrepreneurship and co-founding multiple startups marked a profound shift in my career. This decision has greatly influenced the nature and impact of my work. However, as an entrepreneur, my focus expanded to not only advancing scientific discoveries but also translating them into real-world applications that address critical needs and challenges.

Being involved in the entrepreneurial world has allowed me to witness the tangible impact of our innovations on people's lives. Seeing our products positively impact oncology patients and witnessing the growth and success of our startups has been incredibly rewarding. Nevertheless, I do miss certain aspects of the academic research environment such as the freedom to explore diverse research topics, the sense of academic community and the inspiring atmosphere of the university. Despite these moments of nostalgia, I believe that my transition to the entrepreneurial world has allowed me to apply my expertise in a more direct and practical manner. By focusing on commercialization, I can make a tangible difference in patients' lives and contribute to solving real-world problems. While I may miss certain aspects of the academic environment, I am fulfilled by the opportunity to drive innovation and positively impact society through entrepreneurial endeavors.

Effectively balancing the demands of managing three startups, other responsibilities, and caring for my family requires meticulous planning and prioritization. Time management is crucial, and I allocate specific time blocks for each venture and commitment, staying organized with calendars and to-do lists. Despite being a multitasker, I am mindful of my limits and seek support when needed, whether from team members, advisors, or loved ones, to avoid burnout. Outside of work, spending time in nature and with family and friends brings fulfillment and renewal. I also enjoy cooking, astronomy and stargazing, analyzing the skies with good company. Emphasizing self-care and pursuing hobbies contribute to my life-work balance. In conclusion, effective time management, delegation, and self-care are essential in managing multiple ventures. I encourage aspiring multitaskers to prioritize well-being and passions, as it fosters success in both professional and personal spheres.

What: RSL Revolutionary Labs Ltd, Promed Bioscience, Theramir Ltd

Where: Limassol, Cyprus

More Info: rsl-labs.com, promedbioscience.com, theramir.com

Who: Dr. Marianna Prokopi-Demetriades is a biotech innovator, entrepreneur and Clin. Assoc. Prof. in Research Oncology. Her research focuses on personalized oncology and its translation into innovative solutions for improving the quality of life in cancer patients. She is the co-founder of three biotech companies, all of them selected by Deloitte for the 2nd Edition Deloitte Middle East & Cyprus “Technology Fast 50 Impact ward”. RSL Revolutionary Labs Ltd (founded 2018) focuses on the development of innovative dermaceuticals for the relief and healing of skin side effects in oncological patients; Promed Bioscience Ltd (founded 2017) develops medical biomaterials based on 3D-atelocollagen for medical applications such as the synthesis of 3D-artificial organs and tissues; Theramir Ltd (founded 2016) develops new generation personalized therapies and diagnostic platforms for cancer, based on nanotechnology and microRNAs. Marianna, has received numerous awards such as the prestigious 2022 King’s Distinguished Alumni Award in STEM (London, UK), the Global WomenTech Award Rising Star Founder of the Year 2022, the Republic of Cyprus Research Award in the field of “Life Sciences” for 2021, the Madame Figaro “Woman of the Year in Innovation” Award in October 2020, the Peter Baker Award (2009) and the Graduate of the Year Award (2009) from King’s College London. In January 2023 she was also proclaimed a CIM Honorary Fellow by the Cyprus Institute of Marketing for her contribution to the advancement of the Cypriot Economy. She is a member to the Board at ENAVSMA Foundation (est. March 2023), founding member and Member to the Board of Directors at the ICC Women Network Cyprus established in January 2023 and Member to the Board of Directors at the Cancer Research & Innovation Centre. Marianna holds a BSc in Molecular and Cellular Biology and a MRes in Biochemistry from the University of Kent, a MSc in Medical Microbiology and Bacteriology from London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine/University of London and a PhD in Cardiovascular Research from British Heart Foundation/King’s College London. Marianna volunteers as a mentor for young people in many business and entrepreneurship programs such as the ICC Women Network Cyprus, the Junior Achievement Cyprus, ARIS-Deloitte, the AIPFE Cyprus/Women of Europe and was selected as Global Ambassador for Cyprus in WomenTech Network 2022, she was a Falling Walls Finalist for the “Startup Breakthrough of the Year 2022” and she is a Falling Walls Female Science Talent Ambassador from July 2022.