HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged 
Jul 23, 2026 | News
Extracellular vesicle research in Szeged takes centre stage
A joint research team from the University of Szeged and the HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged has received HUF 30 million in funding for a three-year project aimed at developing a new formulation to support the regeneration of intimate tissue injuries following childbirth, as well as other injuries affecting sensitive tissues.
The project focuses on extracellular vesicles. These tiny particles, naturally released by cells, play an important role in intercellular communication and contribute to processes involved in tissue regeneration. The researchers aim to develop a locally applicable formulation that could, in the longer term, support the targeted and less invasive regeneration of injuries affecting intimate tissues.
The project is led by Prof. Dr. Krisztina Buzás, Head of the Department of Immunology at the University of Szeged. The SZTE–HUN-REN BRC Szeged Extracellular Vesicle Research Group is responsible for producing and characterising the extracellular vesicles, as well as investigating their effects in cellular models.
Dr. Zsuzsanna Darula, Head of the Proteomics Research Group at HUN-REN BRC Szeged, contributes to the scientific coordination of the project. Her team coordinates the targeted proteomic analyses and the investigation of relevant signalling and biological pathways. These studies will help reveal the molecular processes associated with the effects of the developing formulation on cells.
Dr. Szilvia Berkó, Head of the Liquid and Semisolid Dosage Forms Research Group at the Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Regulatory Affairs, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Szeged, is responsible for developing, optimising and performing the physicochemical characterisation of the polymer-based formulation designed to carry the extracellular vesicles.
Led by three women researchers, the project brings together expertise in immunology, proteomics and pharmaceutical technology. The development may also be considered for patent protection, making the project an important step not only towards new scientific findings, but also towards their potential future practical application.