Fifth biannual consortium meeting: ENDOTARGET consortium gathered in Cascais, Lisbon (Portugal)
In May 2025 the ENDOTARGET consortium gathered for its fifth biannual meeting, this time in the beautiful coastal town of Cascais, just outside Lisbon, Portugal. Hosted by project partner iMM, the meeting brought together experts from across Europe to reflect on progress, share insights, and plan the next phases of the project.
The three-day event took place in a hybrid format, combining online discussions with in-person sessions held at the stunning Cascais Cultural Centre, housed in the former Church of the Convent of Nossa Senhora da Piedade.
Day 1: Setting the Stage Online: Non-Scientific Work Packages
The meeting officially kicked off online on May 12 with a focus on the non-scientific work packages. The Ethics team provided important updates on compliance, timelines, and the evolving ethical landscape surrounding our research. Further, the Dissemination, Communication, and Exploitation (DCE) team highlighted outreach successes and laid out the path ahead. Key administrative updates were also shared, ensuring all partners are aligned as we approach the next reporting period.
Day2: Hybrid Scientific Exchange in Cascais
On May 15, we met in person at the Cascais Cultural Centre. After a warm welcome from Patrícia Costa Reis (iMM) and Project Coordinator Kari Eklund (HUS), the day unfolded with a full agenda of scientific progress reports. WP1 explored the progress of our population cohort analyses to uncover biomarkers and lifestyle factors influencing the health-to-disease transition. Further, WP2 delved into the work of our focused cohort and in vitro studies on gut permeability and systemic endotoxemia. After a much-appreciated coffee break featuring yogurt, fruits, and pastel de natas, we resumed with WP3, updating on the proof-of-concept studies on systemic and local mechanisms of joint inflammation. Afterwards, the consortium had a delightful Portuguese lunch with bacalhau at the Cascais Cultural Centre before diving into WP4 working on new strategies to prevent and control arthritis via the gut–joint axis. The scientific meeting was concluded by WP 5, presenting the current status of data integration, multiomics modelling, and development of AI-based prediction tools.
The evening concluded with a cheerful group dinner, sampling the best of Portuguese cuisine and strengthening the bonds that power this collaborative project.
Day 3: Ethical and Clinical Discussions
On May 16, the meeting wrapped up with important governance discussions. The Ethical Board met for updates and a short interactive workshop. Afterwards, the Clinical Board gathered to discuss any clinical topics. Finally, all partners reconvened for the General Assembly, ensuring coordination across work packages and preparing for the months ahead.
Looking Ahead
As ENDOTARGET crossed its midway point, meetings like this are critical for maintaining momentum and scientific alignment. With the support and collaboration of dedicated partners across Europe, we continue our mission to unravel the role of the gut–joint axis in rheumatic diseases and bring novel insights to the forefront of personalised medicine. Thank you to everyone who contributed to another successful and inspiring gathering, and especially to our hosts at iMM for making us feel so welcome in Cascais!
See you soon at the end of the year in lovely Zürich!
