Berlin-Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT) (Institution)

The BCRT has a highly interactive research program based on a consortium of internationally acknowledged experts in both basic and clinical science with a track record of successful scientific interaction demonstrated by numerous joint publications in high-ranking journals and joint network projects (DFG, BMBF, EU etc.). The program comprises work in fourmedical research fields linked to overlapping platforms on basic, bioengineering, and translational research. Initially, the Center is putting particular emphasis on research and clinical programs related to musculoskeletal and immunological applications, since these aspects of regenerative medicine are most advanced at the Charité and they are closest to clinical translation. In additon, the Center will focus on regenerative therapies concerning the cardiovascular system and nervous system.

The BCRT-GRANT of 1 Mio €/a flexible funds allows performance- related budget allocation and support of international collaborations. Within the Charité the BCRT is implemented as an independent, interdisciplinary research center. The BCRT is located in a newly reconstructed building at the Charité Campus Virchow Clinic is host to 26 newly implemented research groups (19 groups: 12 junior groups and 7 senior goups) that are Funded by the German Ministry for Education and Research, The Helmholtzassociation (4 Groups) and the DFG (3 Groups) supplemented with already established groups from the respective research fields. The BCRT core groups closely interacts with the research groups of the institutions of the principal investigators. In addition to administrative efforts, the BCRT central units (Z-project) will also support international relationships, education, and studying ethical issues of regenerative medicine in general, and of stem cells in particular. Together with the Technology Foundation Berlin a dedicated business development unit collaborates with regional and international industry to facilitate translation. First partnerships have been established with several companies such as Milteny Biotech, BBraun, Pharmicell Europe and Pluristem.