Degenerative diseases of the retina (retinopathies) represent the most
prevalent cause of registered blindness in both the working and retired
sectors of the European population. The very real prospect of prevention
of blindness caused by retinopathies represents, in scientific as well as
socioeconomic terms, one of the most impelling and achievable challenges
within the current arena of biomedical research. In this context studies
on the basic biology of the retina and its specific functional elements
will be an important contribution towards a knowledge-based pathophysiology
of retinopathies and the development of rational therapies.
The specific objective of the Marie Curie Research Training Network "EUROPEAN
RETINAL RESEARCH TRAINING NETWORK" ('RETNET') is the integration and networking
of nine outstanding research teams in the context
of a well-defined collaborative research programme that will formulate and
facilitate a structured training programme for researchers in the highly-specialised
field of retinal research. 'RETNET' will provide a unique and cohesive but
flexible framework for the training and professional development of young
researchers. These interacting centres bring together a critical mass of
theoretical and applied research using a multidisciplinary approach. Each
centre represents an existing working unit, having its own specific expertise
and research agenda.
Over the last decade, the 'RETNET' consortium has been responsible for the
genetic mapping and identification of more than 30 retinal dystrophy loci
/ genes. In addition, worldwide there are few consortia with a comparable
expertise in developmental biology of the eye, creating animal models and
developing therapeutical approaches dedicated to the study of retinal biology
in health and disease. The planned European integration in this important
field should be achieved through the interaction of the networking teams,
exchange, training of PhD-students and Postdocs and secondments to create
a unique network at the European level and progress towards the creation
of a European Research Area of excellence.