Objective
The dynamic three dimensional structure of enzymes is dictated by secondary bonding interactions and plays a crucial role in both molecular recognition and allosteric regulation. “Smart” supramolecular polymers, similarly to natural enzymes, are also capable of undergoing self-organization into a defined structure on account of non-covalent interactions and subsequently exerting a function. A major limitation in the field of supramolecular self-assembly, however, has been access to synthetic systems showing reversible aggregation in water. The goal of this project is to prepare supramolecular polymers which demonstrate hierarchical assembly and light-triggered actuation in aqueous media. The self-assembly motif that will be exploited in the proposed materials is based on cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]), a macrocyclic host molecule capable of simultaneously accommodating two guest molecules, including guests that display a photo-triggered binding affinity such as azobenzene or stilbene derivatives. Photochromic guests for CB[8] will be synthesized and combined with a variety of polymeric architectures; and CB[8] will be utilized as a molecular “handcuff” to hold together polymeric chains. This concept will be exploited in the light-controlled supramolecular polymerization of macromonomers and the preparation of polymeric micelles showing tuneable coordination modes. The light-induced modification of the stability, permeability or even morphology of the micelles will be explored. This project addresses major challenges in polymer science such as understanding the factors that determine the binding dynamics of supramolecular polymers in water and exerting reversible photo-control over macromolecular aggregation with impact on substance delivery applications, viscosity modification and the design of self-healable materials. This is a multidisciplinary project that will deliver a highly valuable educational training for the candidate in a cutting-edge scientific environment.
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 chemical sciences polymer sciences
- natural sciences biological sciences biochemistry biomolecules proteins enzymes
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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.
FP7-PEOPLE-2010-IEF
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.
Coordinator
CB2 1TN CAMBRIDGE
United Kingdom
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.