A project from RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences to investigate a new approach for the monitoring and treatment of early Cystic Fibrosis has been awarded €676,866 in funding under the Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future Programme. The funding has been provided by Children’s Health Ireland as a Frontiers for the Future partner.

The funding was announced today by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Patrick O’Donovan TD, as part of a package of €26 million funding for 40 research projects.

The RCSI research team is led by Dr Judith Coppinger, Senior Lecturer at the School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, RCSI and principal investigator at National Children’s Research Centre, Children's Health Ireland. The team will investigate the potential of small particles which are important in regulating inflammation, to monitor and treat cystic fibrosis in its earliest stages.

Inflammation occurs early in the lungs of children with cystic fibrosis, often before symptoms are present. This inflammation can cause significant damage if it is not detected and treated. The project will look at the role of small particles called extracellular vesicles in causing this early inflammation and how we might unlock new treatments by learning how they do so.

Diverse research

Welcoming the announcement, Minister O’Donovan said: “I am pleased to announce the Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future projects, which support high-risk, high-reward research endeavours. The selected projects, spanning 12 research institutions, bring fresh and innovative ideas that will help boost business and benefit society.

“I would also like to commend Research Ireland and the Children’s Health Foundation for their great partnership and their focus on advancing children’s health through this funding programme. I encourage others to create similar partnerships and collaborations.”

Celine Fitzgerald, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Research Ireland, commented: “The Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future programme helps to build research capacity, expertise and reputation. This latest round of grants will support a diverse range of research positions and represents a strong commitment to developing future talent in key areas. It has been a pleasure having Children’s Health Foundation as a funding partner in that drive to strengthen Ireland’s research pipeline.”

Future impact

Fionnuala O’Leary, Chief Executive Officer, Children’s Health Foundation, commented: “Children’s Health Foundation is a proud partner of Frontiers for the Future programme, and we are delighted to co-fund paediatric research projects that will benefit sick children throughout Ireland. Working with Research Ireland, we are able to leverage the funds our incredible supporters raise, to deliver larger grants for research into childhood diseases.

“This ensures the tireless efforts of our fundraisers can result in kinder and more gentler treatments for sick children. Frontiers for the Future programme plays a key role in enabling us to fund paediatric research with the potential to deliver impact for sick children now and into the future.”

Professor Fergal O’Brien, Deputy-Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation, RCSI, said: “RCSI is committed to driving translational research which has a real impact on patients, their outcomes and their quality of life. I extend my sincere congratulations to Dr Coppinger and her team. This research has the potential to make a real difference for children living with early cystic fibrosis and I wish the team every success.”