Objective
Brain machine interface (BCI) aims at modifying brain activities by activating or inhibiting neurons. BCI based on electrodes have often failed because they generate fibrotic reactions. The partners develop the sonogenetic therapy for the distant activation of neurons by ultrasounds (US) with very high spatiotemporal resolution. It relies on the ectopic expression of a mechanosensitive ionic channel via gene therapy to render neurons sensitive to US. A first application is to restore vision in blind patients by imprinting US images of visual scenes in the visual cortex.
After a first proof of concept (POC) in rodents, the partners have obtained convincing results in their NeuroSonoGene ERC synergy showing the distant activation of neurons in the visual cortex of non-human primates. The clinical transfer is not included in this ERC synergy. Therefore, this SonoClin project aims at developing the path toward a first in human for sonogenetic therapy to restore vision. To avoid a too complex implantation of an ultrasound stimulator, this first in human proposes: 1) to open the skull on the visual cortex for injecting AAV viral vectors to allow expression of the mechanosensitive ionic channels in cortical neurons, 2) To stimulate the cortical neurons with US from an external stimulator applied on the skin through an artificial US translucent skull.
The SonoClin project aims at providing the POC for this external cortical sonogenetic stimulation through an artificial US translucent skull in non-human primates.
In parallel to this scientific objective, we will define all the steps and costs leading to the authorization for such a clinical trial: 1) the AAV manufacturing and safety evaluation, 2) the design of a US probe holder and clinical US stimulating machine, 3) the business plan for the creation of a company carrying the clinical trial.
The SonoClin project will establish the path for the clinical transfer of sonogenetic therapy in the context of visual restoration.
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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-2026-POC
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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.
75654 Paris
France
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.