The role of neuron-glia interactions in the pathogenesis of brain diseases (NECTAR)

Leading university:		Charles University
Project leader:		Prof. Přemysl Jiruška
Contact:
Flagship:		Flagship 1: Urban health and demographic change
Participating universities:		Charles University, Heidelberg University, Sorbonne University, University of Copenhagen, University of Warsaw

The NECTAR project aims to revolutionize the study of neurological disorders by shifting the focus from neurons to glial cells. This multidisciplinary consortium brings together neuro-glia and epilepsy specialists to investigate the role of glial cells in brain diseases, particularly epilepsy. The project has three key objectives. Firstly, it aims to establish an agile and diverse consortium capable of conducting high-profile research. The consortium will adopt a complex neuro-glial perspective to explore the mechanisms of brain diseases. Secondly, the project seeks to develop a joint research strategy and identify the most crucial unanswered questions in epilepsy research. By defining research priorities, the consortium aims to guide collaborative efforts, research directions, grant applications, and the long-term sustainability of the project. Lastly, the NECTAR project aims to prepare and submit competitive grant proposals to major international funding agencies such as Horizon and ERC Synergy, thereby securing resources for ground-breaking research on neurological disorders.