Objectif Cytoplasmic streaming (CS) is the name given to the continuous flow of cytoplasm observed in many eukaryotic cells, and is especially evident in freshwater algae like C. corallina, which display a remarkably steady and fast helical flow of cytoplasm along their centimeter-long internodal cells. Such flow is generated by a constant shearing force present at the endoplasm-ectoplasm interface, generated by a well characterized mechanism. The plant probably pays a steep energetic price to mantain CS, but it is not clear what it receives in exchange. Several hypotheses have been proposed, but progress is hindered by lack of experimental evidence. The project is aimed at critically advancing our understanding of the biological implications of CS, through a systematic series of experiments, both in vivo and in vitro. These experiments are based on the implementation of modern multidisciplinary techniques like confocal microscopy, microrheology, optical tweezing, PIV, and soft lithography, never used in this context before. These will guarantee unprecedented levels of accuracy and control. The first objective is to investigate what determines the flow profile and its speed, through the experimental characterization of CS and cytoplasm's rheology. The second is studying the flow's response to external stimuli, which should be connected to the plant's ability to react to environmental changes. The third is to investigate the transport properties of CS, since strong advection can qualitatively impact important quantities like the rate of nutrient intake. The project will contribute to develop a new area of biophysics, focused on problems that are more specifically biological. It is an exciting opportunity for the European scientific community to build a new and more integrated collaboration between physicists and biologists. It will be an excellent training for my future career, and a great introduction to doing research in Europe, where I wish to continue to work. Champ scientifique natural sciencesbiological sciencesmicrobiologyphycologynatural sciencesbiological sciencesbiophysicsnatural sciencesphysical sciencesopticsmicroscopyconfocal microscopy Mots‑clés Hydrodynamics Physiological biophysics Programme(s) FP7-PEOPLE - Specific programme "People" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Thème(s) PEOPLE-2007-2-1.IEF - Marie Curie Action: "Intra-European Fellowships for Career Development" Appel à propositions FP7-PEOPLE-2007-2-1-IEF Voir d’autres projets de cet appel Régime de financement MC-IEF - Intra-European Fellowships (IEF) Coordinateur THE CHANCELLOR MASTERS AND SCHOLARS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE Contribution de l’UE € 172 225,98 Adresse TRINITY LANE THE OLD SCHOOLS CB2 1TN Cambridge Royaume-Uni Voir sur la carte Région East of England East Anglia Cambridgeshire CC Type d’activité Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Contact administratif Dawn Barker (Ms.) Liens Contacter l’organisation Opens in new window Site web Opens in new window Coût total Aucune donnée
