With €50 million and a public Biobank, a new hub for diagnosis, drug development and preventive medicine is born in Pula
A scientific challenge with Sardinian roots
SardGen is the name of a potentially game-changing project in Sardinia. Backed by over €50 million, it aims to tackle genetic diseases by creating an unprecedented alliance between scientific research, public institutions and private companies. The initiative promises faster diagnoses, targeted therapies, lower healthcare costs, and a better quality of life for thousands of Sardinians.
The project was unveiled today, May 22, 2025, at the science park auditorium in Pula, the future site of the Sardinian Biobank.
From research to business: the SardGen model
SardGen has a well-structured ecosystem behind it. Carmen Atzori, director of Sardegna Ricerche, emphasized the key role of the Biomed labs and the symbolic and operational value of the new Biobank, set to reinvigorate the regional tech park.
Giuseppe Meloni, Regional Minister for Planning, called the project a bet on Sardinia’s future, while Armando Bartolazzi, Health Minister, said that investing in research means saving future healthcare resources.
Gavino Mariotti, Rector of the University of Sassari, highlighted the project’s third-place ranking among 128 in an EU call as proof of Sardinia’s planning excellence.
Genetic diagnostics and precision therapy for autoimmune diseases
The scientific soul of SardGen is Francesco Cucca, geneticist and scientific director of the project. He explained that the therapeutic targets will focus on autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and juvenile diabetes, which are particularly widespread and disabling in Sardinia.
Using genetic and immunological data, the project aims to develop personalized drugs, predictive medicine, and genomic-based prevention, involving hospitals like Sassari, Cagliari and the Arnas Brotzu center.
Sardinian Biobank: a strategic infrastructure for the future
The Sardinian Biobank, approved by the Regional Council on April 17 and co-financed by PNRR funds and the Sardinian Region, will become a key tool for biomedical research and technology transfer. It will serve as a genetic archive and a research platform for developing advanced diagnostics and treatments.
Gianluca Cadeddu, program manager, mentioned over 500 operators involved, 150 directly recruited, and 10 patents already filed. SardGen is shaping up to be an ecosystem of innovation, rooted in Sardinia’s DNA.
FAQ
What is SardGen?
A €50 million program to combat genetic diseases in Sardinia.
Where will the Sardinian Biobank be located?
At the science and technology park in Pula.
What diseases does SardGen focus on?
Autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis, juvenile diabetes, and blood disorders.
Who is behind the project?
Sardegna Ricerche, Sardinian Region, University of Sassari, companies and research centers.
What are the benefits for citizens?
Faster diagnosis, targeted therapies, lower healthcare costs, and improved quality of life.
Who funds SardGen?
European Union via PNRR, Sardinian Region, and private co-funding.
What is the role of Biomed labs?
They will lead clinical and genetic research.
What will the Biobank do?
Store genetic data and support the development of advanced medical treatments.
Will the health system use genetic data?
Yes, with participants’ informed and explicit consent.
Are there already results?
Yes, 10 patents have been filed and hundreds of professionals are involved.
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