WOUND - A multi-organism functional genomics approach to study signalling pathways in epithelial fusion/wound healing. (Life sciences, genomics and biotechnology for health) (2004-01-01 - 2007-12-31) (»add to infobox)

Wound healing disorders are a major health problem which demand the development of effective therapeutics. This, however, requires a thorough understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying healing. The goal of this project is to identify evolutionary conserved genes and major signaling pathways that orchestrate the healing process, and to use model systems to help define their function. Previous studies demonstrated a strong conservation of the genes involved in murine and human wound repair and epithelial movement and fusion in Drosophila and C. elegans. Therefore, we will perform a multi-organism functional genomics approach to identify genes that are under- or over-expressed during wound healing or that are required during epithelial morphogenesis. Our first objective is to identify genes regulated in more than one system. The second objective is to analyze their expression in situations of impaired fusion/repair. The third objective is to use invertebrate models and monocultures and organotypic mammalian culture systems to examine the function of the most highly conserved genes. Finally, for a few selected genes, transgenic/knockout mouse studies and studies using skin-humanized mice shall be performed to identify their in vivo function in repair. The ultimate goal is to identify and explore some genes as targets for the development of innovative therapeutics. This project fulfills the program objective of "Advanced genomics and its application for health: Fundamental knowledge and basic tools for functional genomics in all organisms". The consortium brings together major experts in morphogenetic processes and wound healing. It includes biotech and bioinformatics companies, and principal investigators from both genders of four European countries as well as from Argentina. This unique combination of experts should guarantee an innovative research and outstanding training opportunities.

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