The European Rare Disease Research Coordination and Support Action (ERICA) ERN Research Conference

The Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases is excited to present this Collection, which stems from the final meeting of the European Rare Disease Research Coordination and Support Action (ERICA) Consortium.

The ERICA Consortium, involving all 24 European Reference Networks (ERNs), aims to leverage the strengths of each ERN to create a unified platform that enhances research and innovation capabilities across all ERNs.

Through knowledge sharing, engaging with stakeholders in the rare disease field, and forming transdisciplinary research groups working across the global health spectrum, ERICA seeks to achieve the following objectives:

• Establish new competitive networks for rare diseases within and between ERNs

•Develop effective data collection strategies

• Improve patient involvement

• Enhance the quality and impact of clinical trials

• Raise awareness of the innovation potential within ERNs

ERICA will strengthen research and innovation capacity by integrating ERN research activities and collaborating with European research infrastructures to synergistically increase impact and innovation. This will lead to more efficient access to safe therapies, ultimately benefiting patients with rare diseases and complex conditions.

All submissions in this collection undergo the journal’s standard peer review process. Similarly, all manuscripts authored by a Guest Editor(s) will be handled by the Editor-in-Chief. As an open access publication, this journal levies an article processing fee (details here). We recognize that many key stakeholders may not have access to such resources and are committed to supporting participation in this issue wherever resources are a barrier. For more information about what support may be available, please visit OA funding and support, or email [email protected] or the Editor-in-Chief.