EndoCompass project: endocrinology across the lifespan

Background: Endocrine science remains under-represented in European Union (EU) research programmes despite the fundamental role of hormone health in human wellbeing. Analysis of the CORDIS database reveals a persistent gap between the societal impact of endocrine disorders and their research prioritisation. At the 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 comprehensive analysis of the EU CORDIS database focusing the Horizon 2020 framework period (2014-2020). Expert analysis examined endocrine regulation and health from gametogenesis through embryonic development, early life, puberty, adulthood, and aging, integrating evidence across developmental stages. Results: Research priorities encompass understanding epigenetic programming from embryonic life; elucidating developmental origins of adult disease; investigating brain-gut communication across ages; and addressing endocrine aspects of healthy aging. Special emphasis is placed on critical developmental windows, transgenerational effects, and the need for integrated research approaches spanning paediatric and adult endocrinology. Conclusions: This component of the EndoCompass project provides an evidence-based roadmap for understanding hormone regulation across life stages. The analysis demonstrates the need for coordinated research spanning conception to aging to address Europe's demographic challenges. The findings support strategic investment in lifespan approaches to endocrine health.