CONTEXTH: New systems of controlled gene expression for improved delivery of therapeutic substances.

• Research unit: EU RFP
• Project number: 00.0234

Key words (English)

Heterologous gene regulation; tet system; pip system; streptogramin; tetracycline; dual regulation;
Biotechnology; Environmental Protection; Innovation; Technology Transfer; Life Sciences; Medicine; Health; Waste Management

Alternative project number (English)

EU project number: QLK3-2000-00721

Research programs (English)

EU-programme: 5. Frame Research Programme - 1.1.3 The 'cell factory'

Short description (English)

See abstract

Partners and International Organizations (English)

Coordinator: Institut National de la Santé (INSERM) (F)

Abstract (English)

This proposal wishes to contribute to the development of new treatments against high frequency diseases that are cancers, retinopathies and arteriosclerosis, touching up to 42% of the population.
The proposed approach is to create new gene-transfer systems based on programs of coupled transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulations of gene expression, for an efficient and controlled delivery of active therapeutic agents. Regulatory tools emerging from fundamental research results will allow the creation of new vectors and genetically modified cells efficiently expressing combinations of antiangiogenic agents or growth factors and cytokines.
Antiangiogenesis can target up to 100% of solid tumours and most retinopathies. Angiogenic and anti-inflammatory agents target atheroma plaque, to prevent myocardial infarction. The vectors and cell lines delivering therapeutic substances, tested on animals models, will be commercialised to big industrial companies in Europe that think launching clinical assays and exploit them in a large scale. This program is expected to create a large added value for European community.

References in databases (English)

Swiss Database: Euro-DB of the
State Secretariat for Education and Research
Hallwylstrasse 4
CH-3003 Berne, Switzerland
Tel. [phone]
Swiss Project-Number: 00.0234