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Content archived on 2024-05-29

In vitro techniques for the identification of novel treatment strategies for brain and spinal cord traumatic injury

Objective

Traumatic injury to the brain and spinal cord represents a devastating change in the lives of many individuals. In addition to preventative measures, there is a clear need for early neuroprotective treatment strategies to minimise the damage caused by the traumatic incidencts.

Two key aspect of discovering such new treatments are:
a) the identification of appropriate targets and
b) the use of predictive screening models.

With respect to (a),this can be investigated pharmacologically or by the use of molecular biological techniques. With respect to (b),initial studies should use an in vitro system in view of the three Rs (refine, reduce and replace) of animal research. In my laboratory, the hypothesis that compounds preventing the uptake and metabolism of endocannabinoids may be useful neuroprotective agents is being explored.

This requires an interdisplicinary approach, provided by collaborations with research groups both within and outside the EU. However, we currently lack two key techniques: a) organotypic cultures from adult rodent brain and spinal cord, in order to study potential neuroprotective agents in a relevant in vitro model, and b) siRNA, to reduce the activity of specific targets in the organotypic cultures when selective inhibitors have not been identified. This proposal uses a time line whereby two experienced researchers are recruited sequentially in order to teach us these techniques. The researchers will participate in the training of designated PhD students and laboratory assistants to ensure effective transfer of knowledge.

The techniques will be used initially to determine whether modulation of the endocannabioid system is a potential treatment strategy for limitation of damage after trauma. The techniques, however, are generic and can in combination be applied to evaluate other potential targets at an early stage. This will greatly strengthen our competitiveness and ability to attract talented researchers to a less favoured region of LFRs of EU.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Keywords

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Topic(s)

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Call for proposal

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FP6-2005-MOBILITY-3
See other projects for this call

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.

TOK - Marie Curie actions-Transfer of Knowledge

Coordinator

UMEA UNIVERSITET
EU contribution
No data
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.

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