Research progression beyond state-of-the-art
In EpiPredict, computational modeling guides experimental technologies uncovering systems behavior of breast cancer resistance development upon endocrine treatment. This powerful multidisciplinary approach makes full use of our excellent expertise of innovative technologies and crosses borders of the various disciplines involved. We leveraged fundamental systems properties of resistance development and medical patient data using an angle that goes far beyond state-of-the-art. Currently, we are writing a conceptual paper commissioned for Nature Communications outlining our EpiPredict strategy.
Impact of EpiPredict
Host-based and network-wide training allowed our ESRs to gain a very critical mind-set. During EpiPredict monthly video conferences, annual meetings and secondments, the ESRs reflected on each other's research, implementing knowledge in a broad context. This will benefit future EU research and innovation. Our EpiPredict research initiated a thorough collaboration between partner labs. The positive atmosphere stimulated epigenetic research in the field of breast cancer resistance and serves as a harbor for future research enabling research developments largely stimulating EU industry.
Outreach to the public at large
EpiPredict research-training led to high impact research dissemination. Magnani et al, Nature Genetics (2017) is the first example of the collaborative, innovative and multidisciplinary research within EpiPredict. Patten et al., Nature Medicine (2018) is a breakthrough paper using epigenetic mapping of luminal breast cancer tumors to uncover how intra-tumor and inter-patient heterogeneity drives tumor evolution. Several additional high impact collaborative studies are being finalized. The highly-valued EpiPredict-organized International conference (
http://www.systemsepigenetics2018.eu/(odnośnik otworzy się w nowym oknie)) provided ample dissemination of EpiPredict research. EpiPredict generated a strong international hub with excellent opportunities for a follow-up collaborative network project.
Three Science Cafés targeting different audiences (scientists in general, patients and industry) including video and blog reporting created full awareness of the impact of epigenetics in health care. This intense outreach is important to set the scene to stimulate socio-economic impact and wide-societal implications of EpiPredict data.
