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Content archived on 2024-06-18

The biophysical regulation of genome function and its role in mesenchymal stem cell differentiation

Objective

"Little is known concerning the mechanisms through which mechanical stimuli are transduced into regulatory signals within the cell. Gene expression can be regulated through alterations in nuclear architecture, modulating genome function. Mechanical load induces both nuclear distortion and alterations in gene expression. One putative transduction mechanism involves changes in gene expression in response to alterations in nuclear architecture as a result of mechanical perturbation of the cell. Additionally, remodelling of the nucleus occurs during stem cell differentiation, altering nuclear stiffness, and potentially influences nuclear architecture mediated mechanoregulation of gene transcription.

In this project, the candidate will utilise the expertise in mechanobiology and functional genomics available at the host institution to investigate the potential for the micro-mechanical environment to modulate MSC differentiation fate via changes in nuclear architecture. Accordingly, the candidate proposes an ambitious and innovative program of research to test the following hypotheses:
1. Mechanically-induced nuclear distortion causes alterations to the nuclear architecture and chromatin dynamics sufficient to alter gene transcription
2. Mechanically-induced differentiation can lead to inheritable changes in the epigenetic state of chromatin regulating mesenchymal stem cell fate commitment

He will employ a multidisciplinary approach building on the strengths of the host institution. The studies will utilise human mesenchymal stem cells in conjunction with state-of-the-art techniques for the mechanical perturbation of cells, functional analysis of nuclear organisation, biomechanical analysis, and functional genomic analysis; which will act to maintain and enhance the candidate’s position at the forefront of advances in this newly emerging field of genomic mechanobiology."

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Topic(s)

Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.

Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

FP7-PEOPLE-2011-IEF
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Funding Scheme

Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.

MC-IEF - Intra-European Fellowships (IEF)

Coordinator

QUEEN MARY UNIVERSITY OF LONDON
EU contribution
€ 200 371,80
Address
327 MILE END ROAD
E1 4NS LONDON
United Kingdom

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Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

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