Neurodegeneration: call for transnational research in biomarker optimisation and use
This call is now closed for applications and is available for reference purposes only.
The Joint Programming initiative in Neurodegenerative Diseases (JPND) has been established by 23 European countries to address the growing societal challenge presented by age-related neurodegeneration.
This initiative spans the biomedical, healthcare and social science agendas, and seeks to improve our scientific understanding of neurodegenerative disorders, provide new approaches for their prevention, diagnosis and treatment, and ensure effective provision of health services and social care so that patients can received optimum care at all stages of their illness.
MRC is leading on this activity for the UK through the Neurosciences and Mental Health Board. Further details and information on the initiative may be found on the JPND web site at http://www.neurodegenerationresearch.eu/.
The emphasis of the 2011 trans-European call is on molecular biomarkers for neurodegenerative disorders, but imaging biomarkers may also be included. Cognitive and behavioural approaches are not included in the call. Additionally, proposals – that are for up to three years in duration - should:
- Define clear objectives regarding harmonization of patient sample documentation, collection and storage
- Deliver biomarker analytical methods within three years
- Specify how the work will add value to ongoing activities
- Specify the impact on disease understanding; management; therapeutics, or healthcare management across Europe
- Demonstrate access to relevant well-characterised populations or suitable biomaterial collections
- Demonstrate that the applicants have the range of skills needed to conduct the studies or have appropriate collaborations in place.
The countries involved in the JPND initiative have agreed a central process for peer review of proposals throughout which MRC will be represented. Funding for UK applicants will be provided by the MRC. The MRC is contributing a total of 750,000 € and anticipates that this sum will contribute to the UK partners of between 3 and 5 transnational research groups.
MRC will communicate final funding decisions to UK applicants in December 2011.
Further information on all aspects of the call including examples of the types of novel approaches that could be proposed may be found on the JPND website here.
The MRC contact for this activity is: