FORCE REPAIR 7TH Progress Meeting in Zagreb

The FORCE REPAIR consortium gathered in Zagreb, Croatia, on April 14, 2026, for the 7th Progress Meeting, hosted by Research and Innovation Services-RISE. The meeting brought together project partners to review achievements to date and outline the next steps in developing the innovative FORCE REPAIR smart wound dressing.

The meeting opened with welcoming remarks from Ema Cerimagic of RISE and project coordinator Dr Damien Dupin (CIDETEC). Discussions then focused on updates across all Work Packages, with partners sharing insights from ongoing experiments and evaluating progress in project implementation.

Significant advances were reported in the project’s core technologies. Bioactive inks and the 3D printing platform, developed during earlier phases, are now entering testing stages. Notably, pro-regenerative ink is demonstrating promising results, including enhanced cell recruitment, restored activity in wound exudate environments, and support for innervation. Early in vivo findings further reinforce these positive outcomes.

On the exploitation side, feedback from clinicians at EWMA 2025 Conference and the ITF preparation process have helped sharpen the strategy to ensure a clearer commercial path forward.

Regulatory and clinical development efforts are also advancing. Jon Giblin, representing Asphalion, presented updates on the clinical development plan and preparations for engagement with regulatory authorities.

Beyond the laboratory, the consortium continues to actively disseminate its findings. Through participation in conferences, social media outreach, publications and engagement with key stakeholders, the FORCE REPAIR project is ensuring that its innovations reach relevant audiences and contribute to advancements in wound care.

Day two of the meeting brought the FORCE REPAIR team back to business with a review meeting, where it was confirmed that the project is progressing as planned. The positive feedback from the reviewers was a great encouragement for the entire team.

The FORCE REPAIR consortium will meet for its final in-person meeting in November 2026.