| Abstract | INNOVATION is a Doctoral Network with the objective to decipher and make use of ion channel functions in erythrocytes in terms of disease treatment concepts and simultaneously training highly skilled doctoral candidates by promoting international, inter-sectoral and multi/inter-disciplinary collaboration in doctoral-level training in Europe.INNOVATION proposes a systematic, conjoined approach using molecular biology, in vitro erythropoiesis, state-of-the-art electrophysiological techniques, methods to detect erythrocyte functionality and patient samples (channelopathies and other red blood cell-related diseases) to decipher and make use of ion channel functions in terms of disease treatment concepts. We need to overcome the challenges that hinder the gain of knowledge within the field, using genetic manipulation of progenitors, cell differentiation into erythrocytes, statistically efficient electrophysiological recordings of ion channel activity that are limited by the heterogeneity of the cell population (120 days of lifespan without any protein renewal) or access to large cohorts of patients. Our multidisciplinary team includes biophysicists and cell biologists to investigate erythrocyte characteristics and bioengineers to develop diagnostic devices. INNOVATION involves academic research centres as well as diagnostic labs providing patient samples, blood bank research centres developing cultured transfusion products and SMEs that provide and develop diagnostic tools or innovative therapeutic red blood cell products. The consortium offers on-site training, secondments and a variety of courses in transferrable and complementary skills to 10 doctoral candidates. |
