Objective
Eukaryotes originate from an endosymbiotic merger between the mitochondrial ancestor and an Asgard archaeon, but the topology of this interaction remains unclear. Intriguingly, first analyses of the ultrastructure of Asgard archaea uncovered eukaryotic hallmark features, such as an actin and microtubule cytoskeleton, as well as a unique morphology with extended protrusions connected to genome-containing cell bodies.
I hypothesize that - despite the lack of membrane-bound compartments - the complex cell plan of Asgard archaea is functionally compartmentalized. ARCHAEAOLOGY will test this hypothesis in a multi-scale imaging approach with three synergistic objectives:
Aim 1 will systematically describe the ultrastructure of an Asgard archaeon by developing high-throughput cryo-electron tomography workflows. It will define cell states and features, quantitatively describe cellular architecture, and create a resource for comprehensive “visual proteomics” workflows.
Aim 2 will leverage this atlas in in situ structural analyses. It will reveal the structure and distribution of Asgard ribosomes, test for eukaryote-like uncoupling of transcription and translation, and uncover potential proto-nuclear hallmarks of the cell bodies.
Aim 3 will spatially map mRNA and protein localization using expansion microscopy to test whether lokiarchaeal cell bodies and protrusions are distinct compartments. It will illuminate the function of lokiarchaeal protrusions and reveal whether localized translation and cytoskeletal transport establish compartment identity.
ARCHAEAOLOGY will resolve how spatial organization preceded eukaryotic complexity to reconstruct the cellular organization of the archaeal ancestor of eukaryotes. These insights will provide the experimental foundation to re-evaluate and develop models of eukaryogenesis. Importantly, these unique approaches will also establish a framework for deciphering the cell biology of non-model organisms by integrated multi-scale imaging.
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Keywords
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Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
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Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
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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
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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.
HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants
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Call for proposal
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Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2026-STG
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69117 Heidelberg
Germany
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