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Investigating eukaryotic replisome dynamics at the single molecule level

Objective

For cells to reproduce, an accurate duplicate of the genome must be created. This is no small task. The genetic information stored in each cell consists of ~6 billion pairs of nucleobases (base pairs, bp) assembled as a polymer 2 metres long and 2 nanometres in diameter, with the structural form of a double helix. For a mammalian cell to divide, this deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) must be copied in a time frame on the order of 1 day, or ~70,000bp a second. DNA replication is common to all 3 domains of life, bacteria, archaea and eukarya and is accomplished by a complex of proteins. This proposal brings together a researcher of great proficiency in single molecule methods and multidisciplinary research with the Single Molecule Imaging group at the London Research Institute, one of the world leading centres in DNA replication. Combined, we will build unique instruments and develop single molecule assays to understand the molecular gymnastics of DNA replication in eukaryotes. We will elucidate rates of DNA unwinding by eukaryotic helicases and establish enhancements by association with other proteins. We will also study replisome dynamics by observing synthesis of DNA on custom templates in real time. This will allow detection of replication loops and stalling that may occur. We will also examine the mechanism of lesion bypass. The insight gained is impossible with classical biochemical techniques, as individual replisomes are observed in real time rather than measuring an average of a population. Our methods will reveal heterogeneities and obtain precise quantitative details of the dynamics. Features such as pauses and back slips will enable the study of intermediate states and conformational changes linked to replisome dynamics. This proposal will satisfy academic curiosity of understanding life at the most fundamental level but will also increase our knowledge of the how the cell works and thus becomes the building blocks for disease treatment and cures of the future.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

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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.

MSCA-IF-EF-ST - Standard EF

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) H2020-MSCA-IF-2014

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Coordinator

THE FRANCIS CRICK INSTITUTE LIMITED
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 195 454,80
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1 MIDLAND ROAD
NW1 1AT London
United Kingdom

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Region
London Inner London — West Camden and City of London
Activity type
Research Organisations
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Total cost

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.

€ 195 454,80

Participants (1)

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