The Spark programme is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and aims to support the testing and development of innovative and unconventional scientific approaches. It funds original projects, including high-risk initiatives that lack preliminary data and would likely not receive financial support through other programmes.
Assistant Professor Arianna Baggiolini’ s project, titled " Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Model of Perineural Tumor Microenvironment ," aims to utilize human pluripotent stem cells to study the biology of Merkel cells (MCs). These cells, located in the epidermis, closely interact with sensory neurons to help regulate touch and tactile sensations. Researchers are particularly interested in MCs because they are phenotypically similar to Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare type of skin cancer. By studying MCs, this research could enhance the understanding of MCC and aid in the development of related therapies. However, isolating MCs can be challenging, which is why obtaining them from stem cells in the laboratory is of particular interest.
Chronic pain affects one in five people globally, and low back pain is a major cause of disability. Jonas Van Lent’s project " Unravelling the interplay between pain, proprioception, and balance control: a human pluripotent stem cell approach" , aims to explore the complex relationships between proprioceptive neurons and chronic pain, particularly in environments where gravity is altered, such as the microgravity experienced during space missions. The challenges of long-term space travel include the physiological changes that astronauts experience in microgravity, leading to muscle atrophy and alterations in sensorimotor function. Astronauts frequently report back and neck pain during space missions, and these issues often continue even after they return to Earth. Additionally, the effects of microgravity on proprioception, balance, and musculoskeletal function present significant challenges to maintaining health and performance during long-duration missions. This research aims to deepen our understanding of the mechanisms behind this pain and develop new therapeutic approaches. The study will be conducted in four phases and involve recreating sensory neurons using stem cells.
