The RudraLeT-Nano project, a cross-border initiative between France and Spain, is led by the National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS). It unites research teams from Toulouse, Barcelona, and Pamplona. The goal is to combat leishmaniasis, a neglected tropical disease particularly affecting the Occitanie region in France and Catalonia in Spain, areas where the vector's distribution is expanding.
Given the limited current treatments and their significant side effects, the project pursues a dual objective. Socially, it analyzes the environmental, socio-economic, and public health factors contributing to the disease in border regions. It also aims to establish continuous dialogue between scientists, health professionals, the general public, and governmental agencies.
Scientifically, the project focuses on discovering new drug candidates. Medicinal chemistry is designing novel compound families, one of which has already shown high activity. Biology is investigating their mechanism of action and conducting in vivo studies. Nanomedicine is exploring the use of biocompatible systems for nanocarrier delivery.
The project, spanning 36 months, began on April 1, 2026, and will conclude on April 1, 2029. It is co-financed by 65% from the European Union through the Interreg VI-A Spain-France-Andorra (POCTEFA 2021-2027) program, which aims to strengthen the economic and social integration of the Spain-France-Andorra border area.
