About the project: The International Research Agenda Program (IRAP) Center for “RNA and Cell Biology Platform for Research and Innovation in Medicine (RACE-PRIME)” is an integral and inseparable part of the Horizon Europe Teaming for Excellence project awarded to IIMCB entitled “RNA and Cell Biology - from Fundamental Research to Therapies” (RACE). According to the agreement with the European Commission, IRAP is a part of Polish complementary funds allocated to our Institute as a Teaming for Excellence leader in the amount of the EU contribution to support the RACE research not covered by the EU.

Aims, activities and effects: The main objective of the IRAP Center is to elevate IIMCB into a world-class Center of Excellence in RNA and Cell Biology that translates cutting-edge fundamental research into clinical applications and innovations. The “RACE-PRIME” research program is based on two platforms, dedicated to RNA and cell biology, respectively, with one common goal: to develop novel, breakthrough approaches for the treatment of human diseases for which current treatments are insufficient or unavailable. The RNA research platform led by Prof. Gracjan Michlewski focuses on developing antiviral and antimicrobial therapeutic strategies by targeting RNA metabolism pathways controlling specific viruses and bacteria. The cell biology platform, led by Prof. Marta Miączyńska, Director of IIMCB and RACE leader, implements advanced models for rare diseases to discover druggable aspects of their pathomechanisms and develop relevant and preclinically effective personalized therapies.