The proEVLifeCycle network, initiated in Oct 2019, is an innovative, multidisciplinary training program focused on understanding the biology, biomarker potential and function of extracellular vesicles to resolve unmet clinical needs of prostate cancer (PCa). It is within this realm, that we equip early-stage researchers with the knowledge, tools and a creative ethos to be independent scientists, leaders, and drivers of innovation.
In the past decade, it has become evident that cancer cells communicate with their environment via very small vesicles (~100 nm; 1000 times thinner than human hair), named extracellular vesicles (EVs). The cancer cells themselves and the normal cells within and surrounding the tumor secrete these EVs and likely create an environment which is optimal for the cancer to survive and grow. The lifecycle of EVs is poorly understood and their potential as non-invasive biomarkers and therapy target/agents, a growing area of interest.
PCa is a major global healthcare problem, and equally so within Europe where we see approximately 365,000 new cases and 78,000 deaths each year. Our proEVLifeCycle research addresses the high need for novel biomarkers and therapy targets for PCa. Any relief in the burden of this disease will have major impact on the huge socio-economic problems for patients, families, caregivers and society.
The ambitious scientific objectives are to unravel the mysteries of EV biogenesis, homing and uptake to explain how vesicles operate in disease processes; their heterogeneity, their molecular complexity, the biological functions they drive, their local and systemic dissemination and how these may be manipulated. Using state-of-the-art, network-wide shared model systems, imaging, profiling tools and systems biology, the program enlightens the lifecycle of EVs and identifies novel EV biomarkers and PCa therapy targets to address the unmet clinical needs.
Our network of 8 academic and 2 company beneficiaries and 9 partners, provides optimal scientific training, cross-sectoral awareness, entrepreneurship skills, communication in the modern age, extensive opportunities for mobility and patient-facing experiences. We address the EU-skills gaps by providing well-rounded and inventive experts primed for influential careers, contributing to patient well-being and economic prosperity within the EU.
