EndoCompass project: environmental endocrinology

BACKGROUND: Endocrine science remains underrepresented in European Union research programmes despite the fundamental role of hormone health in human well-being. Analysis of the CORDIS database reveals a persistent gap between the societal impact of endocrine disorders and their research prioritization. At national funding level, endocrine societies report limited or little attention of national research funding towards endocrinology. The EndoCompass project-a joint initiative between the European Society of Endocrinology and the European Society of Paediatric Endocrinology, aimed to identify and promote strategic research priorities in endocrine science to address critical hormone-related health challenges.

METHODS: Research priorities were established through a comprehensive analysis of the EU CORDIS database covering the Horizon 2020 framework period (2014-2020). An expert analysis was conducted by leading researchers in environmental endocrinology, integrating literature review, epidemiological evidence, and emerging research priorities to identify key challenges and opportunities across endocrine systems.

RESULTS: Research priorities span 5 critical domains: mechanisms and biomarkers of endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) actions; environmental pharmaceutical contamination; climate change effects on endocrine function; endocrine consequences of air and water pollution; and mechanisms linking environmental stress to hormone disruption. Special emphasis is placed on understanding developmental programming, transgenerational effects, and implications for public health policy.

CONCLUSIONS: This component of the EndoCompass project provides an evidence-based roadmap for strategic research investment. The analysis demonstrates that environmental factors like EDCs fundamentally impact multiple endocrine systems, requiring coordinated research approaches. The findings support the broader EndoCompass objective of aligning research funding with areas of highest potential impact in endocrine health.