TNMU and the Institute of Biomedical Technologies expand cooperation in the field of innovative xenotransplantation

On October 14, 2026, Bohdana Bihuniak, Director of the Institute of Biomedical Technologies, met with Petro Lykhatskyi, Rector of Ternopil National Medical University, with a proposal to conclude a cooperation agreement for conducting joint research and development, applied research, and the implementation of their results into practical medicine.

Cooperation between TNMU and the Institute of Biomedical Technologies in the field of biomedical technologies has a successful history that began back in 1995. During this time, the enterprise developed a methodology for the collection, cryopreservation, and lyophilization of porcine xenografts (protected by 16 patents) and registered the corresponding medical devices.

Annually, the Institute of Biomedical Technologies produces and supplies over 1 million cm² of xenografts to medical institutions in Ukraine. The use of these materials has made it possible to reduce mortality among patients with severe burn injuries by 30%. Today, the company’s products are widely used in combustiology, ophthalmology, dentistry, and traumatology. Lyophilized xenografts are used for the temporary closure of burn and donor wounds, ulcers, replacement of tissue defects, as well as for surgical assistance in cases of corneal lesions. Due to military actions, the need for xenografts in Ukraine has increased sharply.

Under the new cooperation agreement with TNMU, the parties plan to jointly develop, test, and manufacture new experimental medical devices and preparations, including xenosteal implants, xenochondral implants, xenonerves, xenovascular grafts, cryo-lyophilized powders derived from internal organs, and preparations based on the lyophilization of plant-derived products.

Vice-Rector for Research Oleksandra Oleshchuk noted that combining the research potential of TNMU and the Institute of Biomedical Technologies would help accelerate the implementation of high-tech medical solutions to save lives and support the rehabilitation of Ukrainian patients.

The meeting was attended by Ihor Halaichuk, Head of the Department of Oncology, Radiodiagnosis and Therapy, and Radiation Medicine, and Taras Borys, Head of the Legal Department.

TNMU Press Secretary Yanina Chaikivska.

Photos by Mariana Varvaruk.