Euroas European genomic bank and clinical, genetic and immunogenetic databases of ankylosing Spondylitys and the other Spondylarthropathes

Objective

Existing infrastructures of partner laboratories and clinical leading centres in European countries will be harmonised and reinforced into a task force to achieve clinical (phenotypes), genetic material and genotype repository from anklylosing sodalities (AS) and the other spondylarthropathies (SPA), thanks to the access to up to 00 affected families. After diagnostic ascertaining, informative families will be recruited. All needed clinical data (including severity assessment, co morbidities) from AS patients and unaffected individuals will be collected. DNA, cells, sera and transformed cell lines (EBV) will be stored in a central bank for researcher use. Only such a large repository will give enough power to monogenetic, candidate gene, genome wide screen and fine gene mapping studies to successfully identify new AS susceptibility and severity genes, allowing the development of new therapeutic (gene therapy) and preventive approaches.

Programme(s)

• FP5-LIFE QUALITY - Specific Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Quality of life and management of living resources", 1998-2002

Topic(s)

• 1.1.1.-14. - Support for research infrastructures

Funding Scheme

Coordinator

Participants (10)