"SME RECEPTOR is a transfer of knowledge programme which will bring top scientists from industry and academia together to address key questions in nuclear receptor research. The programme of research, which is implemented through the two way exchange of researchers between three leading research organisations and three specialist innovative SMEs, will develop methodology to tackle one of the most pressing medical challenges in Europe – characterization of the nuclear receptor role and the development of drugs targeting the complex symptoms characterized by the metabolic syndrome. SME RECEPTOR will exploit new opportunities for drug design provided by advances in bioinformatics and transgenic technology. This will enhance the understanding of basis mechanisms underlying nuclear receptor actions and their translation into the physiological regulation of diseases. Since cardiovascular toxicity is a major factor involved in both early and late drug failure, SME RECEPTOR will primarily focus on the development of early screening methods for cardiovascular toxicity, as well as to expand the knowledge of the governing molecular mechanisms. A key factor is the ability to translate the knowledge generated within this exchange programme into more advanced and efficient development of novel pharmaceuticals within the industry. The project will generate a group of scientists with unique knowledge and international expertise in nuclear receptor biology as well as nuclear receptor targeting pharmaceuticals. The mutually beneficial two way transfer of knowledge between industry and academia will provide a career boost to the researchers who will acquire leading new knowledge, complementary training and a detailed understanding of the research culture in their opposite sector. The project will further promote industry-academic networking, creating a strategic long-lasting industry-academia partnership."