EFFECT · A European Training Program to Foster the Full Therapeutic Potential of Antisense Technology across Tissues

The EFFecT Doctoral Training (DN) Network responds to the evolving landscape of RNA-based therapeutics and in particular antisense oligonucleotides (ASO). Over the last 25 years, only 21 antisense nucleic acid-based molecules have been approved by the FDA or/and EMA. However, the field is now at the tipping point of maturity to achieve regular translation from bench to bed side, provided that certain obstacles are successfully addressed. Our consortium involves experts from academia, industry, and non-profit organizations across nine European countries with first-hand experience in the successful translation of this new technology and in-depth knowledge of the remaining hurdles for its success. With leading scientists at different career stages, EFFecT’s core is form by nine academic and three industrial partners. EFFecT's objectives include addressing tissue-specific delivery challenges, imparting knowledge on diverse ASO modalities, and creating a roadmap for ASO therapeutics in Europe. The network's composition leverages over 20 years of experience in nucleic acid drug development, and was born from the successful COST Action ""Delivery of Antisense RNA ThERapeutics"" (DARTER). The EFFecT training network ensures a comprehensive education for Doctoral Candidates through knowledge exchange, secondments, research workshops and dissemination. This network is expanded with the collaborations of experts in communication, intellectual property, and open science that will train the DCs in good scientific practices. By addressing training gaps and fostering collaborations, EFFecT is poised to deliver the next generation of experts in this up-and coming field, elevating Europe's visibility and competitiveness in antisense RNA therapeutics.""