AATHEN is based on robust, multi-faceted knowledge exchange activities that include:
- External Speakers and Experts: Once a month, an external speaker with a published track record on ARB pleiotropism and innovation will be invited by one of the funded trainees for a remote or in-person lecture. Talks will be linked to at least 1 host Department or Centre but will be advertised through other UBC Departments and Centres.
- Internal Speakers: Initially done on a monthly basis, AATHEN will host remote seminars done by cluster Faculty to share how their own research program can be leveraged to enhance funding on ARBs and translation to the clinic. This will include sharing of ARBs, ARB analogues, available research models and approaches for biomarker discovery.
- ARB pleiotropism-focused publications: The network’s first review manuscript on non-angiotensin II/AT1R ARB pleiotropism is in preparation and will summarize how a new generation of ARB-derived molecules could have therapeutic properties in absence of blood pressure lowering effects.
- Trainee-oriented program: Once a month, AATHEN-funded trainees will be invited to present their project and data to other AATHEN-affiliated individuals, an activity already under way. The series of interactive workshops will provide trainees with valuable insight and practical knowledge regarding the testing of ARBs in disease models and the required steps towards potential commercialization. We envision that this program will lead to additional funding opportunities and collaborative internships, which are essential in preparing graduate students and postdoctoral fellows for future careers in academia, industry, start-ups, non-profits, or governmental organizations.
- Dedicated web domain/website for Faculty members, schedules, partial ARB structures, interest in collaboration: www.angiotensintherapeutics.ca ; angiotensin.thera@ubc.ca
- A newsletter that describes salient advances in the field of ARBs or UBC ARB funding will be sent to AATHEN Faculty and trainees every other month.
