Who We Are

CLARNET is a comprehensive research infrastructure that integrates advanced preclinical large-animal models, clinical and interventional expertise, sophisticated imaging technologies, and a robust data ecosystem. Its primary focus lies in cardiology and neurology, while remaining open to broader biomedical fields. CLARNET’s translational environment spans the full development pipeline of modern medicine—from cellular and animal experimental models, through diagnostics and interventions, to therapeutic strategies. This includes advanced data management solutions and AI-augmented signal analysis.

By combining large-animal research, state-of-the-art imaging, interventional technologies, and high-performance data analytics, CLARNET represents an unparalleled European platform for cardio-neuro experimental research, technological innovation, and preclinical validation.

CLARNET  is working as ”single-sited” unique research facility, oriented on large animal experimentation. Functionally it is consortium of Veterinary Research institute (VRI) and International Clinical Research Center  St Ann´s University Hospital (FNUSA-ICRC), providing human clinical relevance, experiment conduction and evaluation under an Agreement from 2020, see attached to this questionnaire Moreover data curation and education are taking place as well.  The design  of the partnership took place since 2018, resulting of first common experiments in 2020. During following five years numerous teams collaborated on investigator initiated research as well as contracted research projects.  The project is thus in “operation”  stage for cardiology, but also regularly are conducted experiment of reconstructive surgery, orthopaedics, with possible extension as pilot trials on neurocardiac stimulation, oncological research and  biomedical engineering. The operation is based at VRI Brno, Czech Republic.

Location

Located at VRI premises – Stable 45, the facility includes operating and examination rooms, and a fully equipped technical background (60 m²).

Technical Equipment

FNUSA Equipment

• 3D Mapping System EnSite/NavX Velocity
• Mobile X-ray Unit C-arm OEC 9800 PLUS
• Device for inhalation anesthesia of large animals
• Electrophysiological system CardioLab
• 3D electroanatomical mapping system for cardiac catheter navigation II Type: Carto 3
• Diagnostic-intracardiac ultrasound device Type: Vivid I
• Ablation system – RF generator EP-SHUTTLE
• Stimulator for electrophysiology Type: UHS 3000
• Defibrillator
• Hemochron Signature Elite coagulometer

• Electrosurgical Unit (4Fit Surgery vet)
• Mechanical Operating and Examination Tables
• Vital Signs Monitor (iM8B VET)
• Bronchofibroscope (Karl Storz)
• Video Endoscopy System (ECLERIS)
• Ultrasound Scanner
• Portable & In-Vivo X-ray Systems
• Laryngoscope McIntosh, Suction Device, Infusion Pump
• Animal Care Equipment, Surgical Lamps, Diagnostic Tools

Housing: Open pig housing, small lab animal housing, and barrier breeding systems across multiple buildings.

Scientific and technological scope

The primary goal is to bridge the gap between basic laboratory science and clinical patient care by utilizing large animal (LA) models (predominantly swine) which closely mimic human physiology, anatomy, and disease progression, especially in the fields of cardiovascular, neurological, potentially, oncological medicine and others. The joint expertise ensures ethically rigorous and highly clinically relevant preclinical testing.

The partners‘ knowledge, expertise, and technological devices are highly complementary. FNUSA-ICRC provides clinical excellence and interventional capability, including world-class clinical specialists (e.g., cardiologists, neurologists) experienced in advanced procedures like catheter ablation and device implantation. Technologically, they offer access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and interventional suites, such as specialized electrophysiology and tissue engineering laboratories, but also experience with high-resolution X-ray angiography, CT, or MRI. Conversely, the VRI contributes veterinary expertise in LA models, encompassing the ethical maintenance of accredited animal facilities, specialized long-term anesthesia, complex experimental surgery, detailed histopathological and immunological analysis. This combined resource is essential for establishing and maintaining complex chronic disease models, such as heart failure or long-term neurological implants.

The main services provided to the user community in the scope of LA experimentation include establishing customized disease models (Cardiovascular, Neuro) that accurately replicate human pathology. The platform facilitates the preclinical testing of new medical devices, pharmacological agents, and cutting-edge interventional techniques (e.g., irreversible electroporation for ablation) under conditions mirroring the clinical environment. Furthermore, the collaboration offers comprehensive regulatory and ethical support, expert data analysis, and advanced multimodal imaging capabilities crucial for validating new therapeutic strategies before they proceed to human clinical trials.

The overall mission of this collaboration is to establish Central Europe’s premier facility for high-fidelity Large Animal Translational Research, accelerating the development and safe transfer of innovative diagnostic and therapeutic technologies into clinical practice. The executive summary of the science and technology strategy focuses on integrating clinical, veterinary, and engineering expertise to tackle major global health challenges. The strategy mandates the continuous development of sophisticated LA models for chronic disease–