The elderly population in Europe is in rapid expansion, raising concern about the increase of incapacitating age-related diseases. PhasAGE aims to strengthen the excellence, knowledge, and innovation potential of Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Cellular (IBMC) in biomolecular phase transitions in age-related diseases. By establishing a sustainable collaborative network between IBMC and the University of Padova (UniPD, IT), the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB, ES), and the Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB, BE), PhasAGE aims to enhance the impact and quality of research and training at IBMC on computational and experimental analysis of protein phase separation, while contributing towards responsible science communication and outreach activities with societal impact. PhasAGE activities are structured around the following Specific Scientific and Technological Objectives:
-Enhance the impact and quality of research and training at IBMC;
-Create a European excellence center on phase transitions at IBMC and raise the research and teaching profile of all partners' staff (especially ESRs);
-Develop and implement novel tools and technologies;
-Increase the competitive edge of IBMC and enlarge networks at the national and international levels;
-Contribute towards responsible communication of science and enhance scientific literacy.
The PhasAGE project has advanced research and training in protein phase separation and aggregation in age-related diseases, establishing IBMC as a European excellence hub. Key achievements include the development of novel tools and software, which contribute to the understanding and treating age-related protein aggregation disorders. The publication of 42 open access articles, including 6 collaborative papers, underscores the project's scientific impact. PhasAGE organized five training schools, seminars, and workshops, enhancing the skills and career prospects of ESRs, and facilitating international collaborations to further strengthen the research community. PhasAGE dissemination and outreach efforts, including the organization of international conferences and engagement activities with patient associations, have raised awareness about the significance of protein phase separation research. This fostered responsible science communication and contributed to increasing scientific literacy. Overall, PhasAGE has successfully enhanced the research capacity, networking, and visibility of IBMC and its partners, establishing a robust European research ecosystem focused on biomolecular phase transitions in age-related diseases. The project's activities have not only advanced scientific knowledge but also had a positive impact on society and the ecosystem surrounding IBMC.
