Objective
How can we create molecular life in the lab?
That is, can we drive evolvable DNA/RNA-machines under a simple nonequilibrium setting? We will trigger basic forms
of autonomous Darwinian evolution by implementing replication, mutation and selection on the molecular level in a single
micro-chamber? We will explore protein-free replication schemes to tackle the Eigen-Paradox of replication and translation
under archaic nonequilibrium settings. The conditions mimic thermal gradients in porous rock near hydrothermal vents on the
early earth. We are in a unique position to pursue these questions due to our previous inventions of convective replication,
optothermal molecule traps and light driven microfluidics. Four interconnected strategies are pursued ranging from basic
replication using tRNA-like hairpins, entropic cooling or UV degradation down to protein-based DNA evolution in a trap, all
with biotechnological applications. The approach is risky, however very interesting physics and biology on the way. We will:
(i) Replicate DNA with continuous, convective PCR in the selection of a thermal molecule trap
(ii) Replicate sequences with metastable, tRNA-like hairpins exponentially
(iii) Build DNA complexes by structure-selective trapping to replicate by entropic decay
(iv) Drive replication by Laser-based UV degradation
Both replication and trapping are exponential processes, yielding in combination a highly nonlinear dynamics. We proceed
along publishable steps and implement highly efficient modes of continuous molecular evolution. As shown in the past, we
will create biotechnological applications from basic scientific questions (see our NanoTemper Startup). The starting grant will
allow us to compete with Jack Szostak who very recently picked up our approach [JACS 131, 9628 (2009)].
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- natural sciences physical sciences classical mechanics fluid mechanics microfluidics
- natural sciences biological sciences genetics DNA
- natural sciences biological sciences genetics mutation
- natural sciences biological sciences molecular biology molecular evolution
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Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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.
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.
Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
ERC-2010-StG_20091028
See other projects for this call
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.
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.
Host institution
80539 MUNCHEN
Germany
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.