Objectives and overview of the research program

The goal of INNOVATION is to systematically elucidate the multifaceted characteristics of ion channels and their function in RBCs. This requires the joint interdisciplinary efforts of the INNOVATION network, comprising renowned experts from academia and industry with synergistic expertise and scientific backgrounds, to identify novel mutations in ion channels and their regulators in congenital anaemia and to address both physics and cell biology in health and disease. Specifically, we will address the following objectives. 

• To assess the role of ion channels during erythropoiesis
• To elucidate the molecular and functional basis of channelopathies in RBCs, as well as the secondary involvement of ion channels in congenital anaemia
• Development of a red blood cell-based concept for novel therapeutic approaches

The research programme is structured into five work packages that investigate specific topics:

• Ion channels in erythroblasts: genetic manipulations and functional screens
• Ion channel in mature red blood cells: differentiation and functional screens
• Red blood cell channelopathies: diagnosis, characterisation of disease and thrombotic complications
• RBC-ion channel function as a modifier of clinical and biological expression in RBC disorders other than channelopathies
• Red blood cells as drug carriers and optical triggered cargo release