25 October 2024
The BIOTOOL-CHF consortium convened for its M13 General Assembly at the Paris Cardiovascular Research Center (PARCC), marking a critical juncture in the project’s development. Over two days, members reviewed the progress achieved since the project’s initiation, examined current research advancements, and mapped out future objectives in addressing chronic heart failure.
The assembly commenced with an introduction by Project Coordinator Dr. Luciano Potena of the Policlinico Sant’Orsola in Bologna, setting forth the agenda and key focus areas. Following this, presentations were delivered by various team members, underscoring both the scientific and operational aspects of the project.
Key updates included:
- Project Management and Biomarker Identification: Stefania Melandri from Warrant Hub (Tinexta Group) shared insights on project management, while Daan Ceelen from UMCG ambulancezorg presented findings on the identification of relevant biomarkers through independent retrospective cohorts.
- Data Analysis and AI Development: INSERM’s Agathe Truchot and Clément Delacroix provided an in-depth look at data analysis and the development of AI-driven prognostic models, integral to refining predictive capabilities for chronic heart failure.
- Decision-Making Tool Development: Victoria Hemzacek from Predict4Health outlined the current progress in creating a clinical decision-making tool to aid practitioners in patient management.
The second day featured further critical discussions, including:
- Stakeholder Engagement and Congestion Management: Igor Diemberger from the University of Bologna emphasized the role of stakeholder engagement and the integration of medical devices for improved congestion management.
- Patient-Centered Research: Salvatore Di Somma of AISC (Associazione Italiana Scompensati Cardiaci) introduced a patient questionnaire aimed at deepening patient insights within the research framework.
- Clinical Study Coordination: Elena Toschi from ECRIN discussed the logistical and regulatory efforts required for clinical study approvals, underscoring the importance of coordinated efforts at the local level.
- Exploitation and Protection Strategy: Agnese Amati from Warrant Hub led a session on the project’s exploitation and protection strategy, emphasizing the need for robust measures to safeguard and maximize the impact of BIOTOOL-CHF’s innovations.
Remote presentations concluded with Marwa Atef Eid Eid from the University of Bologna, who outlined the exploitation plan for the project’s companion diagnostic toolkit.
The assembly concluded with an update on communication and dissemination strategies, presented by Stefania Melandri. These plans aim to enhance visibility and engagement for BIOTOOL-CHF’s ongoing and forthcoming milestones.
With significant achievements and a collaborative spirit, the BIOTOOL-CHF consortium is well-positioned to continue advancing healthcare solutions for chronic heart failure.
