The project of the Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine (CERRM) is focused on conducting cutting-edge interdisciplinary research aimed at developing new diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for disorders of the reproductive system, as well as innovative therapeutic solutions for bone tissue regeneration and the prevention of fibrotic diseases. CERRM members are dedicated to the development of advanced tools, procedures, and products, while simultaneously strengthening the competitiveness of scientists and the Croatian pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. The project emphasizes the development of human resources and research infrastructure through intensive collaboration with leading national and international institutions in the field of biomedicine, with the goal of increasing the technological and market readiness of innovative solutions and improving patients’ quality of life.

The project is organized into two main research units—Reproductive Medicine (RepMed) and Regenerative Medicine (RegMed)—which jointly address key health and societal challenges. Project activities include the implementation of basic, translational, and preclinical research, international mobility of researchers, education and professional training of staff, knowledge and technology transfer, intellectual property protection, dissemination of results, promotional activities, and the implementation of horizontal measures aimed at gender equality, non-discrimination, and sustainable development.

Within the RepMed subunit, the project addresses growing demographic and health challenges associated with low birth rates, increasing infertility, and the rising incidence of reproductive system cancers. Particular emphasis is placed on investigating the molecular etiology of male infertility, congenital disorders, and malignant diseases of the reproductive organs. The project envisages a multidisciplinary approach to idiopathic male infertility through the integration of genetic, epigenetic, hormonal, oxidative, and environmental factors, including the impact of endocrine disruptors. It will also explore the potential application of non-invasive diagnostic methods, such as magnetic resonance imaging, as an alternative to invasive surgical procedures. In the field of congenital disorders, the aim is to improve genetic screening through the development of multilocus analyses that will enable more precise and cost-effective diagnostics. In reproductive system cancers, research is focused on identifying new, more sensitive biomarkers and developing liquid biopsy methods for more precise tumor phenotyping. Further research builds on previously identified genes and glycans as potential biomarkers of infertility, as well as on the development of translational models for non-invasive diagnostics.

The RegMed subunit focuses on the development of innovative therapies for the treatment of bone defects, degenerative spinal diseases, and fibrotic diseases, which represent significant global health and socioeconomic challenges. The project will develop advanced osteoinductive therapies as an alternative to autologous bone grafts, with the aim of improving the treatment of segmental bone defects and achieving more successful spinal fusion. Special emphasis is placed on preclinical research into new therapeutic strategies for bone regeneration, as well as on investigating the mechanisms of osteogenesis induced by recombinant BMP6 protein. In parallel, antibodies targeting BMP1.3 will be developed and tested as a potential therapy for fibrotic diseases, for which current treatment options are limited and largely focused on symptom relief. The development of these therapies has significant translational and commercial potential, and successful clinical application could enable the production of innovative medicines in Croatia and further strengthen the national pharmaceutical industry. By implementing the planned activities, the project will contribute to the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, enhance Croatia’s international scientific visibility, and create preconditions for further research and investment in the biomedical sector. In the long term, the project’s results have the potential to significantly improve healthcare and the quality of life of a large number of patients suffering from reproductive disorders, musculoskeletal diseases, and fibrotic diseases.