The PSYchiatric disorders and COmorbidities caused by pollution in the MEDiterranean area (PsyCoMed) project proposes a MSCA Staff Exchange program that aims to characterise the role of anthropogenic pollutants in the Mediterranean area as a risk factor of neuropsychiatric disorders and associated pathologies, and the role of neuroinflammatory responses in the disease progression. The consortium comprises 11 beneficiaries (8 academic, 3 SMEs) and 3 TC partners putting together complementary expertise in environmental and life sciences (academics) and analytical biology or natural therapeutic phytocompounds (SMEs). Through a multiscale (from molecular to clinical science), multi-modal (from mechanistic to behavioural approaches), and inter-sectoral strategy, PsyCoMed will correlate the effects of pollutants on psychiatric symptoms with alterations of inflammatory pathways in animal models and psychiatric patients. We will investigate neural mechanisms underlying pathological changes in vitro and in in vivo preclinical models. Natural substances with therapeutic potential will be tested for their ability to restore healthy mechanisms and alleviate pathological symptoms in animal models. PsyCoMed offers a unique framework to build a network synergy by bringing together themes and scientific practises in the Mediterranean area. The partners will share knowledge/know-how through secondments and workshops in support of PsyCoMed scientific objectives. This will improve the skills of staff members and their opening to the academic and private sectors. By proposing common protocols and experimental design, the participants will foster standardization of experimental procedures and diffusion of good laboratory practise. At a global level, the consortium will acquire the capacity to tackle complex neurobiological challenges, while building long-lasting collaborations. PsyCoMed will provide decision-makers with the ground for public health orientations with societal impact.
In addition to research articles in leading journals, further dissemination will be achieved through reviews and international conferences (e.g. Gordon Conferences, Society for Neuroscience Meetings, FENS Forum). Interdisciplinary dissemination will also be ensured through the participation to the eco-toxicology international conference, in relation to the PLASTICØPYR European project. This link will open future research avenues to determine the role of pollutant-induced intestinal dysbiosis on psychiatric disorders. The creation of new networks at both the senior and ESR level enhances cooperation between partners and boosts the R&I capacity among them. Indeed, secondments and participation in international conferences, and workshops – through mobility – enhances talent and knowledge circulation across the research and innovation landscape. In addition, the dedicated and transversal skill training offered by PsyCoMed will strengthen Europe human capital base in R&I.
