Abstract
(English)
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Neurodegenerative diseases and injuries that affect central nervous system (CNS) neurons present a formidable clinical, human and economic challenge for the Community. They are difficult to treat because adult CNS neurons cannot be replaced by cell division, and because their axons have only poor ability to regrow. We will challenge these pathologies on both cellular and systemic levels in an orchestrated effort to develop treatments that prevent degeneration and enhance repair of the nervous system.
Two parallel strategies will be used to achieve this objective:
a) a joint research programme involving more than 20 teams in 8 internationally recognized Centres in Marseille, Cambridge, Göttingen, Lausanne, Lund, Munich, Stockholm and Turin. The centres were chosen as leaders in complementary aspects of this competitive field: neuronal cell biology; in vitro and ex vivo culture models; molecular analysis of processes in development, pathology and regeneration; animal models of disease, degeneration and regeneration; and therapeutic strategies involving gene therapy, stem-cell differentiation and small-molecule drugs.
b) a multidisciplinary training scheme in the field of brain repair for a cohort of 16 outstanding Ph.D. students from throughout Europe. Students will collaborate with at least two Centres, and participate in 8 specialist Workshops in addition to network meetings. They will gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge techniques required for their project, and also be trained in other approaches and professional skills. This will create a community of young scientists for whom thematic and transnational mobility will be first nature, giving them the opportunity to become future leaders in the field, either as academics or in EU industry.
The management structure addresses key issues such as gender balance, individual career development and durable benefits to users in EU society (medical profession, patients, industry and local Doctoral Schools).
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