Theramir Secures €525,000 To Propel Cancer Therapy To Clinical Phase

In a significant boost to its pioneering cancer treatment research, Theramir has successfully raised €525,000 in a bridge funding round. This capital injection is poised to support the company’s operations through the latter half of 2025, targeting a critical milestone: the initiation of clinical trials for their innovative therapy, EVmiR.

EVmiR, now patented by the European Patent Office, represents a novel approach in cancer treatment. By utilising extracellular vesicles (EVs) to deliver microRNAs (miRNAs) directly into tumours, Theramir aims to target oncoproteins—key regulators of cancer cell growth. This precision method promises fewer side effects compared to traditional treatments such as chemotherapy. The company’s technology has demonstrated efficacy in treating metastatic breast cancer and is now being tested for pancreatic and bladder cancers.

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Theramir, co-founded by Marianna Prokopi-Demetriades and Costas Pitsillides in 2016, emerged from a passionate pursuit to find a cure for cancer. Their unique technology capitalises on EVs’ natural ability to transport biological information, essentially turning them into couriers that deliver tumour-suppressive messages via miRNAs. This method requires a detailed genetic profile of the patient to enhance the therapy’s precision and effectiveness, potentially offering prophylactic benefits by identifying genetic markers linked to high-risk conditions.

The latest funding round saw participation from notable investors, including Yannos Palate, a former executive at Eli Lilly, who will join Theramir’s advisory board. His extensive experience in life sciences and pharmaceutical engagement is expected to be instrumental in forging strategic partnerships with major pharmaceutical companies. Other investors include Nicosia-based family office Exerte Partners and finance and corporate lawyer Nancy Erotocritou.

Despite the challenges posed by the limited local life-sciences ecosystem in Cyprus, Theramir has managed to attract significant investor interest, raising €2.5 million in total, including €300,000 in grants. The company’s innovative approach and lower research costs compared to major biotech hubs like Boston or London have contributed to its success.

Looking ahead, Theramir is actively seeking a licensing deal with a major pharmaceutical firm to support the clinical trials, which could span up to seven years. The co-founders are optimistic about expediting the timeline through process efficiencies, projecting a market-ready therapy by 2030. In the interim, they are also exploring new revenue streams, such as using EVmiR to treat chronic malignant wounds through a project named MIRACULOUS, which has secured additional funding.

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Cyprus Secures ESA Associate Membership: A Strategic Leap in Global Space Innovation

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

October 23, 2025

Historic Milestone For Cyprus

Cyprus has taken a decisive step towards strengthening its strategic position in the European and international space community. On Thursday, the Republic of Cyprus signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the European Space Agency (ESA), officially paving the way for its transition to associate member status. This landmark agreement was signed by Deputy Research Minister Nicodemos Damianou for Cyprus and ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher at the Agency’s headquarters in Paris.

Enhancing National Competitiveness And Investment

The new status will significantly bolster Cyprus’ national space ecosystem by opening access to ESA mechanisms and programmes. This development is set to enhance the country’s competitiveness, drive innovation, and attract strategic investments – key elements that underpin the National Space Strategy. Moreover, Cyprus is poised to tap into extensive European funding and bolster international cooperation, thereby reaffirming its role as a reliable partner in Europe’s digital and technological future.

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Years Of Dedicated Preparation And Strategic Growth

In his address at ESA headquarters, Deputy Research Minister Damianou emphasized that this achievement is the culmination of years of dedicated preparation and cooperation with the agency. Citing the gradual progress made since the 2009 Cooperation Agreement, he highlighted recent strides in developing the necessary expertise, institutional framework, and a comprehensive legal structure aligned with international standards such as the Outer Space Treaty and the Liability Convention.

Key Infrastructure Developments And Innovations

Cyprus’ investments in its space infrastructure further underscore its commitment to becoming a significant player in the European space sector. Recent milestones include the inauguration of the Cyprus Space Research & Innovation Centre and the new Space Incubation Centre, complemented by the upcoming Earth Observation Ground Station. With over 300 days of sunshine annually and robust telecommunications, the country offers an ideal environment for hosting advanced satellite ground stations, control centres, and data gateways.

A Promising Future In European Space Leadership

The enhanced association with ESA comes at a pivotal time, particularly with Cyprus preparing for its Presidency of the Council of the European Union in early 2026. The Deputy Minister underscored that space is poised to become a key pillar in promoting Europe’s growth, competitiveness, and strategic autonomy. With this momentum, Cyprus is set to transform its space ambitions into tangible benefits for both its citizens and the broader European economy.

Commitment To Shared Progress And Cooperation

In closing remarks, both Cypriot and ESA leaders expressed deep appreciation for the collaborative efforts that made this transition possible. As ESA Director General Aschbacher congratulated Cyprus on its commitment to space and innovation, he extended a warm welcome to the citizens of Cyprus for a journey marked by discovery, technological advancement, and shared strategic benefits. With ratification by the House of Representatives in the upcoming months, Cyprus’ associate membership marks the beginning of an era characterized by expanded access to ESA programmes, funding, and collaborative opportunities across Europe’s dynamic space landscape.

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