Objective The structure-function relationships that explain the transport mechanism of membrane proteins on a molecular level are poorly understood and define one of the most complex and interdisciplinary research fields at the interface of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Here I propose the investigation of the KdpFABC complex for the potassium uptake into the cell. It combines features of three membrane transport systems (P-type ATPases, channels and ABC transporters), which traditionally are considered to be mechanistically and structurally distinct. I propose to decipher the mechanism of action of the KdpFABC system, which is likely to overthrow the conceptual boundaries conventionally used to describe membrane transport mechanisms. The work might lead to the design of novel antibiotics, as these systems are exclusively found in prokaryotes. The structural studies will be conducted exploiting the recent breakthroughs in high-resolution single particle cryo electron microscopy (cryo-EM) that will be established by me as experienced researcher and thereby contribute to the cutting-edge research at UG. The complementary expertise of myself in structural biology and of Prof. Slotboom, as a world-leading scientist in the functional characterization of membrane proteins, are ideally suitable for the successful completion of the research objectives. Ultimately, this project will provide me a unique opportunity to establish myself as an independent researcher and use the knowledge and skills acquired to obtain an academic position within the EU. Fields of science natural sciencesbiological sciencesmicrobiologybacteriologynatural scienceschemical sciencesinorganic chemistryalkali metalsnatural sciencesbiological sciencesbiochemistrybiomoleculesproteinsnatural sciencesphysical sciencesopticsmicroscopyelectron microscopynatural sciencesbiological sciencesmolecular biologystructural biology Keywords """high-resolution single particle cryo-EM""" Programme(s) H2020-EU.1.3. - EXCELLENT SCIENCE - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Main Programme H2020-EU.1.3.2. - Nurturing excellence by means of cross-border and cross-sector mobility Topic(s) MSCA-IF-2016 - Individual Fellowships Call for proposal H2020-MSCA-IF-2016 See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MSCA-IF - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF) Coordinator RIJKSUNIVERSITEIT GRONINGEN Net EU contribution € 177 598,80 Address Broerstraat 5 9712CP Groningen Netherlands See on map Region Noord-Nederland Groningen Overig Groningen Activity type Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window Participation in EU R&I programmes Opens in new window HORIZON collaboration network Opens in new window Total cost € 177 598,80
