On 12 June 2026, representatives of the National Institute of Chemistry and CTGCT visited Gimnazija Jesenice, where they presented modern biological medicines and the development of gene and cell therapies to third-year students.
The visit took place at the invitation of Gimnazija Jesenice and biology teacher Katarina Trontelj. As part of their science curriculum, the students had already covered the basics of molecular genetics, immunology, cloning, genetic engineering, and CRISPR-Cas technologies, making the meeting a meaningful extension of their prior knowledge by offering insight into current research and translational approaches in modern biomedicine.
The purpose of the visit was to introduce students to the research work of the National Institute of Chemistry and the Centre of Excellence for Technologies of Gene and Cell Therapy – CTGCT, and to present the field of advanced therapies in an accessible way. This field is becoming one of the key intersections of biology, medicine, biotechnology, and clinical application.
The meeting took place between 12:00 and 14:00 in the biology/science classroom. In the introduction, Greg
or Cuzak briefly presented the National Institute of Chemistry, CTGCT, and the importance of connecting basic research with clinical application. He particularly emphasized that the development of advanced therapies requires cooperation between researchers, physicians, regulatory experts, industry, and the educational sector.
In the expert part of the visit, Dr. Vida Forstnerič presented the field of gene therapy. She explained the basic principles of gene treatment, the possibilities for introducing genetic material into cells, the role of vectors, and the key challenges related to safety, efficacy, and delivery of therapies to the appropriate tissues. The lecture was designed to build on the students’ prior knowledge of molecular genetics and genetic engineering, while showing how this knowledge is applied in the development of new treatment approaches.
Dr. Tina Fink then presented cell therapy, focusing primarily on the basic principles of using cells as therapeutic tools. The lecture covered the role of immune cells, modern approaches to modifying and directing cells for the treatment of disease, and the potential of cell therapies in oncology and other clinical fields. The students thus gained a clearer understanding of the difference between gene and cell therapy, as well as how the two fields complement each other in the development of advanced treatments.
The event took place in a pleasant and focused atmosphere. The students followed the lectures with interest, and the meeting gave them direct contact with researchers and current topics in modern biomedicine. It was particularly encouraging that, after the lecture, one of the students expressed an interest in completing a short internship at the National Institute of Chemistry; arrangements for this possibility are already underway.
The visit to Gimnazija Jesenice successfully contributed to connecting a research institution with the secondary-school environment, encouraging young people’s interest in science, and presenting the importance of advanced therapies for the future of medicine. CTGCT will continue to support activities that bring science, research work, and the development of new therapies for patients closer to young people.