Understanding common mechanisms of diseases and their relevance in co-morbidities

Specific challenge:  The development of new treatments is greatly facilitated by an improved understanding of the pathophysiology of diseases. There is therefore a need to address the current knowledge gaps in disease aetiology in order to support innovation in the development of evidence-based treatments. In this context, a better understanding of the mechanisms that are common to several diseases, in particular of those leading to co-morbidities, constitutes an important challenge.

Scope: Proposals should focus on the integration of pre-clinical and clinical studies for the identification of mechanisms common to several diseases. Proposals should assess and validate the relevance of these common mechanisms and of their biomarkers (where relevant) on the development of disease-specific pathophysiology, as well as their role in the development of co-morbidities in both males and females.

The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU of between EUR 4 and 6 million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.

Expected impact: This should provide:

• A better understanding of disease pathways and / or mechanisms common to a number of diseases
• New directions for clinical research for better disease prevention, health promotion, therapy development, and the management of co-morbidities

Type of action: Research and innovation actions