Project description
In vitro models of neuromuscular diseases
In vitro 3D tissue models or organoids mimic the architecture and microenvironment of living tissues or organs and have attracted interest in various fields of research, including biology, pharmacology, and disease modelling. Funded by the European Research Council, the MusclePlate project aims to develop in vitro 3D skeletal muscle analogues to model neuromuscular disorders (NMD). The platform will comprise a unique design and light-stimulation system for optogenetic control of muscle contraction. Image-based assays and computational algorithms will provide information on muscle structure and function. MusclePlate is expected to revolutionise drug screening for NMDs, potentially leading to novel therapies for NMD patients.
Objective
Neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) are a collection of pathologies that affect the skeletal muscle (SkM) function and lead to reduced mobility, breathing issues and death. Most NMDs are incurable and existing therapies are generally ineffective. The major contributor for the lack of NMD therapies is the absence of human NMD research models, applicable for the screening and validation of therapeutic candidates. Our goal for this project is to develop an in vitro platform containing highly biomimetic and functional SkM analogues, where NMDs can be modelled with the aim of testing drug candidates, in a reliable, high-throughput (HT), and quick manner. The platform will consist of 96 individual 3D tissue units, generated from the myogenic differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). To induce biomimetic and mature tissue formation, the platform will combine a unique topographical design with a light-stimulation system for optogenetic control of SkM contraction. Using image-based assays and computational algorithms, we will be able to automatically extract and quantify the SkM phenotypical (e.g. intracellular structure) and functional (e.g. contraction speed/force) parameters. To show NMD modelling ability within the platform, we will knockout BIN1, a gene whose mutated form is involved in the onset of centronuclear myopathy (CNM), a fatal and incurable NMD. The validity of the NMD model as a drug discovery platform will be demonstrated by testing compounds with known therapeutic activity. This proof of concept project will lay the ground work for a spin-off company devoted to HT drug screening for NMDs.
The successful development of this platform will provide an invaluable tool for pharmaceutical research, allowing accurate, convenient and cost-effective identification of novel drugs and therapeutic targets for NMDs and, ultimately contributing to the acceleration of novel therapies for NMD patients.
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2022-POC2
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
1649-035 LISBOA
Portugal
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.