EARA’s Patient Discovery Project, which raises awareness among patient groups about the role of biomedical research, including the ethical use of animals, while creating a space for informed dialogue, has reached Spain for the first time through a Discovery Day hosted by EARA member the National Centre for Biotechnology (CNB-CSIC) in collaboration with the Madrid Long Covid Association (AMACOP).

The event brought together researchers and people living with long Covid, offering participants first-hand insight into ongoing investigations into SARS-CoV-2 while enabling scientists to hear directly from those affected by persistent symptoms. The programme combined scientific presentations with visits to specialised research and animal facilities, providing a comprehensive overview of how different methodologies contribute to understanding complex disease mechanisms.

The day opened with a welcome session from CNB director Mario Mellado and EARA Deputy Director Nuno Miguel Gonçalves. Isabel Sola and Sonia Zúñiga, co-heads of the CNB-CSIC Coronavirus Research Group, presented current research lines exploring the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2. Isabel described how a range of laboratory approaches, including the use of genetically altered mice, contribute to investigating viral persistence, identifying mechanisms underlying long Covid symptoms and evaluating potential therapeutic strategies and vaccine optimisation.

Participants then toured CNB’s animal research facilities guided by veterinarian Ángel Naranjo, head of the animal facility. The visit provided a practical understanding of how animals are housed, monitored and cared for under strict regulatory standards. Belén Pintado, head of the Transgenesis and Genetic Editing Service, explained the complexities involved in developing and maintaining genetically altered models that enable CNB-CSIC research groups to advance their studies.

The day concluded with an informal networking session, giving participants the opportunity to exchange reflections, discuss research priorities and strengthen dialogue between lived experience and laboratory bench.

“Studies tell us there are hundreds of symptoms, but patients help us understand which ones are truly dominant in real life,” said Isabel Sola. “That allows us to prioritise the right questions and reconsider what we analyse in our animal models based on their observations.”

AMACOP representatives welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with researchers, noting that observing laboratory work firsthand helped demystify the research process and highlighted the ethical care involved in animal research.

“Before this visit, I had a very negative opinion about animal research,” said AMACOP member Beatriz del Barrio. “What surprised me most was seeing the humane treatment of the animals. I leave with a completely different perspective.”

This first Patient Discovery Day in Spain marks an important milestone in EARA’s engagement programme, reinforcing a commitment to transparency, informed dialogue and strengthening the connection between scientific research and patient experience.