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MicroRobotic toolkit to deliver spatiotemporally resolved physicochemical signals and control cell sociology

Objective

Biological organisms have spectacular three-dimensional morphologies in which correct multiscale organization and physicochemical regulation are essential for proper function. Understanding the dynamic interactions among cells connected through a structurally complex three-dimensional (3D) fibre network requires a rigorous system identification effort and engineering analysis. To develop accurate and comprehensive models of cell sociology, we need to identify how several different components act together as a connected system and define high-order emergent programs that constitute layers of signals in time and space. The objective of this proposal is to engineer new microrobotic technologies that can be seamlessly integrated with high-throughput bioengineering platforms and produce physiologically relevant signals to establish an active dialogue with the members of the tissue community and drive the cell-network evolution. We propose to build cutting-edge robotic micromanipulation systems to perform automated operations on 3D biological samples with exceptional dexterity and high spatiotemporal resolution. Wirelessly powered micromachines will modulate local mechanochemical signaling within the tissues and move through fibrillar scaffolds. Multi-functional integrated platforms will simultaneously apply external and internal signals, and advanced imaging systems will visualise whole tissue activity at the cellular resolution. Our data will be used to establish computational models of tissue-level mechanical response to dynamical perturbations with particular focus on transmission of signals and feedback mechanisms. The ability to hack cellular communication links and interfere with the biological processes in 3D systems will lead to a better understanding of morphogenesis and regeneration, and can aid in developing treatments that ensures a microenvironment with a distribution of signals that minimizes disease progression.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Programme(s)

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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.

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.

ERC-STG - Starting Grant

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Call for proposal

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

(opens in new window) ERC-2016-STG

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Host institution

ECOLE POLYTECHNIQUE FEDERALE DE LAUSANNE
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 1 748 773,00
Address
BATIMENT CE 3316 STATION 1
1015 Lausanne
Switzerland

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Region
Schweiz/Suisse/Svizzera Région lémanique Vaud
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.

€ 1 748 773,00

Beneficiaries (1)

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