Objective
Endergonic processes are central to Life. They are achieved by enzymes, that change conformation during their catalytic cycle. Thus, biological non-equilibrium processes are catalysis-driven. The realization of catalysis-driven processes in artificial systems proved challenging. It remains limited to synthetically demanding interlocked structures, which were upgraded with catalytic features affecting ring sliding motion.
With KI-NET, I want to develop a general biomimetic strategy enabling endergonic processes driven by chemical catalysis. I plan to invert the current approach by introducing defined conformational freedom into simple catalytic units.
KI-NET scientific objectives go beyond state of the art in chemically-driven non-equilibrium systems, with the aim to:
(i) establish an unconventional theoretical approach based on “effective transition states”, that guides experiments and reveals common underlying principles for catalysis-driven processes and chemical oscillations;
(ii) realize endergonic conformation changes powered by catalytic processes, including ATP hydrolysis;
(iii) promote endergonic assembly reactions, that will reveal how energy consumption directs chemical adaptation;
(iv) realize an artificial synthase: a catalyst that harvests energy from one reaction and uses it to drive a different one.
I will implement a theory-guided experimental approach at the interface between systems chemistry and molecular machines. Leveraging my broad chemistry background, I will address questions that expand towards physics – in terms of formalizing models – and biology – in terms of operating systems to be imitated and unraveled.
Realizing KI-NET allows overcoming thermodynamic boundaries. Unforeseen opportunities become possible in material science and energy management, such as the realization of artificial mitochondria. Indeed, KI-NET pioneers a largely unexplored area of science at the roots of dissipative systems, complex phenomena, and –ultimately, Life.
Fields of science
Programme(s)
- HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC) Main Programme
Topic(s)
Funding Scheme
HORIZON-AG - HORIZON Action Grant Budget-BasedCoordinator
67000 Strasbourg
France
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Participants (1)
Legal entity other than a subcontractor which is affiliated or legally linked to a participant. The entity carries out work under the conditions laid down in the Grant Agreement, supplies goods or provides services for the action, but did not sign the Grant Agreement. A third party abides by the rules applicable to its related participant under the Grant Agreement with regard to eligibility of costs and control of expenditure.
67081 Strasbourg
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