About PRO-LONG

PRO-LONG is a national research and innovation program focused on developing new treatments for hereditary lung diseases. UMC Utrecht leads the program in close collaboration with Amsterdam UMC, the Dutch Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia patient organization, and 34 professional associations, patient organizations and companies united in the Long Alliance Netherlands. More than 1.2 million people in the Netherlands live with a chronic lung disease, with annual healthcare costs of around €4 billion. While environmental factors such as smoking and air pollution can play a role, genetics are involved in many lung diseases. Some conditions, including Cystic Fibrosis (CF) and Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD), are caused by genetic changes. People with hereditary lung diseases often face lifelong health problems, frequent hospital visits and, in dome cases, a shorter life expectancy. PRO-LONG aims to accelerate the development of innovative treatments, including mRNA and gene therapies. By combining biotechnology, artificial intelligence and research using human stem cells, the program aims to bring new treatments to patients faster. At the same time, PRO-LONG brings together researchers, healthcare professionals, patients and companies to strengthen the Netherland’s position as a leader in innovative therapies for hereditary lung diseases.