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A doctoral training programme for next-generation LUNG-targeted non-viral GENEtic MEDicines

Objective

The lungs play a crucial role in breathing and exchanging gases, and are vulnerable to numerous illnesses, including cystic fibrosis, cancer, asthma, and infections. The application of gene-based therapies is a crucial focus in the development of new treatments for these life-threatening conditions. The administration method is crucial for lung targeted genetic therapies: Inhalation stands out as a non-invasive route, providing ease of use, quick action, localized treatment, and fewer side effects compared to intravenous methods. However, despite its advantages, inhaled RNA therapies have yet to gain clinical approval due to challenges in navigating the complex lung environment and ensuring effective gene delivery.
In LUNG-GENEMED, we aim to develop advanced delivery systems that effectively penetrate lung barriers—such as mucus, surfactant proteins, and mucociliary clearance—to enhance treatment efficacy while minimizing dosage. We will build up a multidisciplinary network of 11 academic partners and 8 non-academic associated partners with expertise in soft matter, drug delivery, aerosolization, respiratory physiology and physiopathology and organ-on-chip technology. We will recruit and train 13 Doctoral Candidates (DC) for generating highly skilled scientists with competencies at the cutting edge of gene therapy who will spread their acquired knowledge across Europe well beyond the timeframe of this project. The training program will focus on developing tailored genetic nanotherapeutics for lung delivery to target untreatable diseases by elucidating the intricate bio-nano interaction patterns within the lungs. Organ-on-chip models of lungs will be used to test safety and efficacy of therapeutics, while reducing animal testing. Overall, we will tackle the current barriers arresting gene therapy by training the next generation scientists through individual training-through-research projects and secondments, scheduled in both academic and non-academic partners.

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Keywords

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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

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(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2025-DN-01

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Coordinator

POLITECNICO DI MILANO
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.

€ 563 510,16
Address
PIAZZA LEONARDO DA VINCI 32
20133 Milano
Italy

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Region
Nord-Ovest Lombardia Milano
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 (10)

Partners (11)

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