Descrizione del progetto
Approfondimento sulla dinamica della membrana cellulare
La membrana cellulare favorisce processi biologici fondamentali tra cui l’endocitosi, la comunicazione tra le cellule e la divisione cellulare. Comprendere pertanto i fattori che controllano la struttura e la dinamica della membrana può aiutare a modulare tali processi. A differenza della maggior parte degli approcci che alterano la composizione del doppio strato lipidico per influire su fluidità e rigidità della membrana, il progetto EXTREME, finanziato dall’UE, propone di regolare la dinamica della membrana cellulare attraverso la progettazione di un microambiente extracellulare complesso. La natura interdisciplinare del progetto fornirà conoscenze senza precedenti sulle membrane cellulari e aprirà la strada allo sviluppo di nuove terapie contro le malattie associate alla membrana, quali il diabete di tipo 2, il cancro e il morbo di Alzheimer.
Obiettivo
Cell membrane is the most critical element that is common to all biological systems. This five-nanometer-thick highly flexible lipid bilayer is known to govern numerous vital cellular processes including endocytosis, exocytosis, enzyme activity, ion transport, cell-cell communication and cell division. Understanding and controlling multiscale structure and dynamics of the cell membrane is, hence, the key to regulate these crucial activities. So far, proposed approaches to tuning membrane dynamics, leading to its fluidity and stiffness, are based exclusively on modification of the bilayer composition that is highly cell specific. In this project, the researcher will use his previous research experience in harmony with expertise of the supervisor to uncover a novel and mechanistic way for regulating the dynamics of the lipid bilayers via engineering complex extracellular microenvironment. Beside its highly interdisciplinary and fundamental nature, this research has a significant potential to open up a new practical pathway to cure membrane-associated diseases, including but not limited to type-2 diabetes, cancer and Alzheimer. This research action will be a great opportunity for the researcher to acquire new scientific expertise, grow his worldwide collaboration network, practice key project management skills and effectively disseminate research outcomes - all of which are essential for being a successful independent academic.
Campo scientifico
- medical and health sciencesbasic medicineneurologydementiaalzheimer
- medical and health sciencesclinical medicineendocrinologydiabetes
- natural sciencesbiological sciencesbiochemistrybiomoleculeslipids
- medical and health sciencesclinical medicineoncology
- natural sciencesbiological sciencesbiochemistrybiomoleculesproteinsenzymes
Programma(i)
Argomento(i)
Meccanismo di finanziamento
MSCA-IF-EF-RI - RI – Reintegration panelCoordinatore
34450 Istanbul
Turchia