DISCARE, a project proposed by researchers from the Molecular Biomaterials Group – Carla Cunha (leader), Helena Azevedo and Rui Pereira, was recognised in the 8th edition (2025/26) of BIP PROOF — a program promoted by the U.Porto Innovation that funds innovative projects within the University of Porto’s research ecosystem, supporting them in conducting proof-of-concept activities. The project also benefits from the contribution of Barbara Macedo from the i3S Research Innovation Unit and the collaboration of Dr Paulo Pereira from the São João University Hospital Center, Porto.
The main focus of DISCARE is herniated disc disease. A herniated disc is currently recognised as the leading cause of spinal surgery, and since it is directly associated with high morbidity, it has very significant socioeconomic consequences.
The invention aims to provide “a minimally invasive, physiological, and personalised therapy, to revolutionise hernia treatment and improve patients’ life quality.” Most herniated discs eventually regress naturally, “either totally or partially, without surgery, with the inflammatory response playing a key role in the spontaneous regression process of the hernia.” However, current treatments include conservative measures and invasive surgeries, and according to the team, “there is a lack of effective therapies.”
Thus, the project will focus on developing a “clinically relevant immunomodulatory therapy that aims to enhance the physiological mechanisms of spontaneous hernia regression, which could represent a major advance in spinal treatment and patients’ quality of life”. With funding from BIP PROOF, the team will develop and validate an in vivo human cell delivery model designed to boost the physiological mechanisms of spontaneous regression. They will also invest in an exploitation plan, including market analysis.
In this edition, a total of 11 projects will receive funding, and each will be awarded up to 10,000 euros. Eight innovations were selected in the field of Health, and three in the field of Energy.
DISCARE team: (from left to right) Paulo Pereira, Bárbara Macedo, Carla Cunha, Rui Pereira, and Helena Azevedo