Project: PATIENT-CENTERED TARGETING OF EPIGENETIC VULNERABILITIES IN NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS: A CROSS-DISCIPLINARY PLATFORM FOR DRUGGABLE DISEASE MODELS

Acronym	EPINEURODEVO (Reference Number: NEURON_NDD-243)
Project Topic	Intellectual disability disorders (IDDs) represent a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by early childhood onset of learning impairment behavior defects. IDDs are linked to detrimental factors that affect cortical development. Many mutations that cause IDDs have been identified. They represent pathways linked to synaptic function and epigenetic gene-expression control Since epigenetic gene-expression is a key process controlling neuronal function in the developing and adult brain targeting the epigenome could be a promising strategy to treat IDDs. Our overarching aim is to better understand the epigenetic vulnerabilities in neurodevelopmental diseases with a specific focus on IDDs that share the genetic and epigenetic de-regulation of H3K4 methylation. We will perform, for the first time, a truly systematic analysis of H3K4-related processes across the spectrum of IDDs ranging from epigenetic gene-expression changes to the corresponding functional consequences. Our consortium is in a perfect position for this task as it combines the unique expertise in epigenetics, brain development, neuronal structural and functional plasticity with ample experience in modeling IDDs in mouse models, iPSC derived human brain organoids in xenograft models. Our results will provide a blueprint for translation research in neurodevelopmental diseases and could have immediate clinical impact.
Network	NEURON Cofund2
Call	Neuron Cofund2 Joint Call 2021

Project partner

Number	Name	Role	Country
1	German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases	Coordinator	Germany
2	Istituto Europeo di Oncologia	Partner	Italy
3	CSIC	Partner	Spain
4	University of Haifa	Partner	Israel
5	KU Leuven	Partner	Belgium
6	University of Debrecen	Partner	Hungary