The scientific research is key to developing new treatments that can alleviate the impact of rare diseases and the disabilities they generate. These pathologies, being rare and affecting a small percentage of the population, present significant challenges both in their diagnosis and in their treatment. However, science and investigation They provide hope by finding new personalized therapies that improve patients’ quality of life. The multidisciplinary collaboration between scientists, doctors and pharmaceutical companies is essential to accelerate this process and translate scientific advances into practical solutions for those suffering from these diseases.
Cantabria Labsknown for its innovation in the dermatological field, is committed to research and development of advanced treatments in areas such as skin care and other chronic pathologies. Its focus on the research and development of cutting-edge dermatological products also has an impact on the field of rare diseasesproviding new solutions that address rare and complex conditions. The company stands out for its ability to combine technology and science to offer effective treatments, always promoting the improvement of patients’ quality of life. Maria Jose Gomez is the medical director of Cantabria Labs.
What is Cantabria Labs’ position regarding research into rare diseases and how does it fit within your mission and vision as a company?At Cantabria Labs we are oriented towards science and innovation, and our portfolio is focused mainly on the dermatology sector. Based on our mission, we seek to create and develop innovative health solutions that improve people’s quality of life, committing to innovation and exploring new frontiers in health. Regarding our vision, we try to be an international benchmark in innovative products based on science. This involves a continued commitment to research and development in areas where patient needs are not fully met.
Why do you think it is crucial to invest in research into rare diseases, despite the relative low prevalence of these disorders in the population?Investing in research into these diseases is crucial because, although individually they are rare, collectively they can affect millions of people around the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are more than seven thousand rare diseases. Furthermore, research in these areas is essential because, although they are diseases with a low prevalence, they have a high mortality rate, so the advances we make can significantly improve the quality of life not only of patients, but also of their families. relatives.
What are the main challenges that researchers face when studying and developing treatments for rare diseases?At the research level we face several challenges. First, the scarcity of data and limited knowledge about these diseases make it difficult for us to research and develop effective treatments. Furthermore, since these diseases affect a small number of people, it is difficult to find patients to carry out clinical trials. All of this makes the cost of developing treatments very high, resulting in expensive treatments, which would make it difficult for patients to access these treatments.
At the research level we face several challenges, such as the scarcity of data and limited knowledge about these diseases.
How do you think new technologies are changing the landscape of rare disease research? Is there any particular technology that is making a significant difference?We know that new technologies are revolutionizing everything and, of course, also research. If we focus on research in rare diseases, new technologies are transforming early diagnosis by identifying complex patterns in clinical and genetic data, allowing us a deeper understanding of the mutations that cause these diseases and, on the other hand, the ease of Global connections allow us to include patients in studies from around the world, accelerating the development of treatments.
They maintain a close working and research relationship with Fundación Querer. What is this alliance like? What projects have you worked on?Our collaboration with the Querer Foundation is fundamentally focused on improving the quality of life of children with rare neurological diseases that affect their ability to communicate and learn. This alliance is based on collaboration to advance research and development of innovative solutions that can benefit these children. At Cantabria Labs we support the educational and scientific projects of the Foundation, complementing its enormous experience in health and well-being. Together, we promote initiatives that generate a positive impact on the treatment of these diseases and on the well-being of patients and their families.
One of the research projects in which we have collaborated has been a study to analyze the action of a combination of probiotics on the intestinal microbiota in children with neurodevelopmental disorders and its influence on the improvement of their abilities.
A study has analyzed the action of a combination of probiotics on the intestinal microbiota in children with neurodevelopmental disorders and its influence on the improvement of their abilities.
How does Cantabria Labs address the issue of disability in its approach to research and product development?Our approach is focused on improving the quality of life of the patient and their families, integrating scientific innovation in the development of products that respond to the specific needs of people. We design products that promote health and general well-being, taking into account the limitations and challenges faced by people with disabilities, always seeking to improve their well-being and facilitate their social integration.
How important is it for Cantabria Labs to include people with disabilities in its clinical research studies? Are there specific challenges in this regard?For us, including people with disabilities in clinical research studies is essential to ensure that our products are effective and appropriate for a specific population, and also reinforces our commitment to equity and social responsibility. However, it is true that there are specific challenges, such as adapting clinical protocols to the needs of participants with disabilities and communicating with these types of patients, and this leads us to work with specialized teams. Despite these challenges, an inclusive approach is essential to developing truly comprehensive solutions.
What are the emerging trends in rare disease and disability research that you see as most promising for the next five years?Major trends in rare disease research include advances in gene therapies and RNA-based therapies. AI is just beginning and, although a priori it will improve early diagnosis and pattern identification, it will probably advance much faster and offer us other advances that we have not yet imagined. For their part, personalized therapies and precision medicine will allow more specific treatments tailored to the unique needs of each person, taking into account the genetic, environmental characteristics and lifestyle of each patient.
Possibly, AI will advance much faster and offer us other advances that we have not yet imagined.
What message would you give to other pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies about the importance of investing in rare disease research and improving the quality of life of people with disabilities?I would tell them that investing in rare disease research is not only an ethical duty, but also a scientific and innovation opportunity. These diseases offer the possibility of applying advanced technologies, such as gene therapy and artificial intelligence, driving the development of pioneering treatments that can open doors to other medical areas. On the other hand, investing in improving the quality of life of people with disabilities not only generates a positive social impact, but also opens new opportunities by responding to unmet medical needs.
As a medical director, what inspires you personally in your daily work regarding research in these areas? Is there any case or experience that has marked your career in this field?After 25 years doing clinical research in different specialty areas, my inspiration has always been to be able to make a difference in the lives of people who face diseases, in many cases complex and even with disabilities, and who are often neglected. Knowing that my work promotes the development of treatments that improve and/or cure diseases, offering an improvement in the quality of life of patients, is a constant motivation.
Precisely the project that we have carried out with the Querer Foundation has been a great challenge, but also a satisfaction and a great learning experience for all of us who have been lucky enough to participate in it.
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