Health

Revolutionizing Chronic Disease Treatment: Meet the Trailblazer from University of Galway

2025-04-22

Author: Li

Transforming Lives Through Innovative Research

At the forefront of cutting-edge medical research, Dr. Ruth Levey from the University of Galway is on a mission to ensure that effective treatments for chronic diseases are accessible to everyone—no matter their geographic location or socioeconomic status.

Breaking Down Barriers in Research

Dr. Levey values transparency and collaboration in her work, actively involving clinicians, patients, and industry partners to align her research with the urgent needs of the real world. "This two-way dialogue is essential for translating research into practical solutions that truly benefit society," she explains.

Innovative Approaches to Chronic Disease

As an assistant professor in the Anatomy Department, Dr. Levey is dedicated to pioneering advanced therapies for chronic diseases. Her research focuses on novel drug delivery systems, oxygen-sensitive biomaterials, and understanding the body’s responses to medical devices. By tackling the roadblocks in regenerative medicine, she seeks to redefine patient care.

Inside the AmbiCART Project

Currently co-leading a groundbreaking initiative known as AmbiCART, Dr. Levey and her team are developing a digital solution to improve the shipment of cell therapies. This innovative project addresses the logistical dilemmas and quality concerns arising from traditional cryopreservation processes.

"We aim to monitor critical quality attributes in real time during transit, ensuring that cells remain viable for infusion," Dr. Levey states. This ambitious undertaking has already secured a competitive entry into the National Challenge Fund's Digital for Resilience Challenge, vying for €1 million in funding.

Collaborating for a Healthier Future

In addition to AmbiCART, Dr. Levey is also a co-principal investigator on VascuSense, a collaborative project funded by the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund. This initiative works on creating biomimetic models of vascular disease to enhance preclinical testing of next-gen medical devices, aiming for safer cardiovascular interventions.

The Drive Behind Dr. Levey's Research

Dr. Levey’s dedication to her work stems from a deep-seated belief that those living with chronic conditions deserve better access to therapies. Chronic diseases impose an immense strain on individuals and healthcare systems alike. Her innovations seek to simplify supply chains and ensure cell viability, making breakthrough treatments available to more patients.

"By refining the logistics around cell therapies, we believe we can transform the landscape of chronic disease treatment and ultimately improve patient outcomes worldwide," she asserts.

A Passion for Discovery

Dr. Levey’s journey into research was inspired by her childhood curiosity about the human body, which was ignited by a toy microscope. Her academic path, culminating in a PhD focused on using self-derived cells for chronic disease treatment, showcased her passion for making a tangible difference.

Working alongside esteemed mentors, like Prof. Garry Duffy, has fueled her commitment to innovative solutions in patient care.

Navigating the Challenges of Biomedical Research

Despite her successes, Dr. Levey faces significant hurdles in translating her findings into practical applications. Funding, regulatory challenges, and the complex process of bringing lab discoveries to clinical use can be daunting.

Moreover, assembling a multidisciplinary team skilled in various fields remains a critical challenge. Yet, Dr. Levey embraces unexpected outcomes in her research, viewing them as valuable lessons that inform future advancements.

Join the Revolution in Chronic Disease Care

With a vision focused on accessibility, innovation, and community engagement, Dr. Ruth Levey is not just a researcher—she is a beacon of hope for countless individuals battling chronic diseases. As she continues to break down barriers in healthcare, the future of advanced therapies looks brighter than ever.