| Project Detail |
Joana Caldeira is a forward-thinking researcher, PhD in Biomedicine and FETALDISC’s CEO, whose passion is to contribute to the generalized life quality improvement of an increasingly ageing society. Following her expertise as a researcher in the field of extracellular matrix modulation, improving current regenerative therapies, namely intervertebral disc disease, Joana was faced with a problem that is many times overlooked: Low Back Pain (LBP). Although it may pose as a straightforward health condition to address, LBP, frequently caused by intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), affects up to 80% of the population, having a tremendous socioeconomic impact. This condition often requires expensive, lengthy, and invasive treatment, which rarely treats the underlying disease, impacting patient’s life quality by affecting mobility, ability to work and sleep. Moreover, this health challenge is also prevalent in the canines, with many breeds suffering from continuous pain, limited mobility, and immobilization at older ages. To address this challenge, Joana founded FETALDISC, LDA to mainstream innovative, and sustainable deep tech biomedical solutions, especially for IVDD treatment, having FETALIX as its core product – THE FIRST REGENERATIVE FETAL-INSPIRED BIOMATERIAL TO TREAT LBP. The solution will change the market dynamics, by achieving better intervertebral disc regenerative results, being more affordable and eliminating existing treatments setbacks. The company’s biggest challenge is to master business and market insights to track investors’ interest, undertake clinical trials, and certification, and thus launch FETALIX into the market. Women TechEU support will be paramount for the company’s business and market robustness, as well as its scale-up through consolidating its business model and plan, thus allowing the company to be fully prepared for the commercialization stage. Women TechEU will be part of the journey of REJUVENATING THE SPINE TO SET PATIENTS FREE. |
