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Targeting RNA with small molecules

Project description

RNA-targeting drug discovery

RNA is recognised as a versatile target for therapeutic interventions due to its crucial role in regulating gene expression and cellular functions. Several types of RNA exist which have well-defined binding sites, offering unique targets that can help address the underlying molecular causes of diseases. With the support of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the TargetRNA project aims to train the next generation of scientists in the development of small molecules that bind to RNA and modulate its functions. The project will focus on antimicrobial compounds that modify the human gut microbiome.

Objective

RNA molecules play key roles in biological processes and diseases. An emerging avenue to develop innovative medicines is therefore to design small molecule drugs that bind to RNA and affect downstream biological functions. However, to advance this field of research, a new generation of scientists is needed that can further develop and ultimately master the challenging process of drug design applied to RNA. Therefore, the TargetRNA network aims to educate and nurture the next generation of scientists with cutting-edge interdisciplinary skills in the discovery and biological characterization of RNA modulators and thus generate fundamental knowledge on what drives affinity and specificity of small molecules binding to RNA. The objective of TargetRNA is to develop compounds with antimicrobial activity through their interaction with RNA targets, and to use these to selectively reshape the human gut microbiome, an area with vast implications for medicine. Training through research activities, spanning from computational and medicinal chemistry over structural and molecular biology to microbiology and in vivo models, will be supplemented by an innovative training programme in specific and transferable skills for interdisciplinary drug discovery strategies to target RNA, including FAIR data principles, open science practices as well as responsible development and sustainable implementation of new innovations. To achieve the ambitious research and training goals, the TargetRNA network unites leading scientists from 13 academic partners (8 beneficiaries, 5 associated) and 4 industry partners (1 beneficiary, 3 associated) based in 9 countries.

Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

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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.

HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-DN - HORIZON TMA MSCA Doctoral Networks

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2023-DN-01

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Coordinator

UNIVERSITETET I BERGEN
Net EU contribution

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.

€ 1 190 995,20
Address
MUSEPLASSEN 1
5020 Bergen
Norway

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Region
Norge Vestlandet Vestland
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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Total cost

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.

No data

Participants (8)

Partners (8)

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