GreenNanoBone: Project Kicks Off in Gdańsk

One month into the project, the GreenNanoBone consortium held its official Kick-off meeting 30 June -1 July 2025. Warmly hosted by the Medical University of Gdańsk, the partners from twelve European countries came together to discuss the project’s first steps towards developing a novel treatment method for medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ), a serious side effect of bone-targeting agents (BTAs) like bisphosphonates, often used to prevent bone metastases in cancer patients.

The meeting opened with a welcome from the host institution, followed by introductions from each partner. These presentations highlighted the consortium’s broad expertise, from nanomaterials and regenerative medicine to artificial intelligence, bioprinting, biosafety, and clinical practice, underscoring the project’s strong interdisciplinary foundation. A presentation by the European Commission’s Project Officer from the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA) placed GreenNanoBone within the wider Horizon Europe framework.

Scientific discussions began with an overview of the project’s work packages. Sessions covered the design of plant-derived nanoparticles, advanced 4D hydrogels, and AI-driven modelling approaches, as well as the integration of bioprinting technologies and strategies to ensure compliance with good manufacturing practice. Further sessions focused on biosafety, bioburden assessment, and the development of both in vitro and in vivo MRONJ models.

On the second day, attention turned to the project’s ethical, regulatory, and societal dimensions. Dedicated workshops addressed responsible research practices, compliance monitoring, and the importance of ethics and safety. Discussions also explored knowledge valorisation, business planning, and capacity building, ensuring that GreenNanoBone’s scientific outcomes will be translated into tangible societal and economic impact.

With a strong foundation established during the Kick-off Meeting, the GreenNanoBone consortium is now fully prepared to embark on its collaborative journey. The discussions in Gdańsk confirmed the shared commitment to advancing safe, ethical, and sustainable innovations in bone regeneration under Horizon Europe.