Progress toward Implementing Multiomic Approaches in Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: Update from the 4th AtheroNET Meeting in Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

The COST Action CA21153 “Network for Implementing Multiomic Approaches in Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Research” (AtheroNET; https://atheronet.eu) was launched in October 2022 with the mission to accelerate the application of multiomics in atherosclerosis research and to foster collaboration among experts from diverse disciplines. Born from the pressing need to advance atherosclerosis management and overcome existing challenges, AtheroNET creates a collaborative arena where innovation thrives through dialogue. The initiative was spearheaded by Prof. Miron Sopić (Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade), the primary proposer of the Action. The Action is led by Chair Prof. Paolo Magni (Università degli Studi di Milano) and Vice-Chair Prof. Yvan Devaux (Luxembourg Institute of Health), with strategic support from a dedicated leadership team: • Grant Holder Scientific Representative: Dr. Ines Potočnjak • Science Communication Coordinator: Prof. Georgios Kararigas • Grant Awarding Coordinator: Dr. Susana Novella • WG1 - Pathophysiological mechanisms: applying multiomics to uncover novel pathogenic players and processes; Leader: Prof. Dimitris Kardassis • WG2 - Personalized clinical models: translating omics insights into improved management of ASCVD; Leader: Prof. Alberico Catapano • WG3 - Standardization and harmonization: developing SOPs and guidelines to enhance reproducibility across omics research; Leader: Dr. Marie Mardal • WG4 - Data integration and ML/AI: optimizing algorithms for integrating complex multiomic datasets; Leader: Dr. Aleksandra Gruca • WG5 - Dissemination and communication: sharing advances with scientists, clinicians, patients, and the public; Leader: Prof. Georgios Kararigas Since its inception, AtheroNET has grown to 475 members from across Europe, embracing COST’s core values of inclusiveness and excellence across geography, gender, and career stage. A significant proportion of members come from Inclusive Target Countries (n=282), with strong representation of women (n=277) and early-career researchers (n=223).