Descrizione del progetto
Gettare nuova luce sulle alterazioni inedite nell’ambito della topologia della cromatina
Nelle persone, l’alterazione della regolazione genica si verifica naturalmente con l’età ed è associata a diverse malattie. Risulta quindi necessaria la caratterizzazione del modo in cui l’organizzazione della cromatina tridimensionale condiziona la regolazione genica in molti disturbi per sviluppare strumenti diagnostici e metodi terapeutici. Il progetto ChromDesign, finanziato dall’UE, formerà 13 ricercatori e ricercatrici in fase iniziale di carriera affinché collaborino con figure esperte europee in biologia della cromatina, genomica 3D e progettazione della ricerca allo scopo di individuare nuove alterazioni nella topologia della cromatina responsabili di malfunzionamenti cellulari. Il progetto analizzerà la modalità di organizzazione nel tempo del genoma in 3D e come l’organizzazione tridimensionale è correlata alla regolazione genica in condizioni di salute e malattia per sviluppare nuovi strumenti diagnostici, comunicare i risultati della ricerca attraverso kit di strumenti specifici e rilevare bersagli terapeutici innovativi.
Obiettivo
ChromDesign is an innovative and interdisciplinary network of 10 European academic and private institutions that will characterize how 3D chromatin organization affects gene regulation during cellular differentiation and in several human disorders. We will train 13 Early Stage Researchers (ESR), equipping them with the skills, knowledge, expertise, and enthusiasm necessary to develop successful future careers in the biomedical field (in academia or the private sector). Together with European experts in chromatin biology, 3D genomics, and research design, these ESRs will work towards the goal of identifying novel alterations in chromatin topology responsible for cellular malfunctions to: i) develop new diagnostic tools, ii) effectively communicate research results through specific toolkits; and iii) identify novel therapeutic targets with the potential to be exploited as treatments.
Alteration of gene regulation occurs naturally during aging and underlies several human diseases. Its better characterization requires a deeper understanding of the spatial organization of the genome. We will investigate how the genome organizes in 3D over time, and how the 3D organization is related to gene regulation in health and disease. We will use and develop technologies in imaging, cell biology, genomics, and computational modelling and will focus on translating our results into clinical applications. ESRs will thereby receive training with state-of-the-art technologies in distinct research areas and in modules with theoretical and hands-on sessions on transferable skills: entrepreneurship, management, communication, and outreach.
ChromDesign comprises 6 work packages: WP1–4 address the 4 main areas of chromatin biology and 3D genomics; WP5 applies the knowledge obtained from WPs1–4 into translational research; WP6 develops (with a dedicated ESR) a set of design toolkits for communicating results to scientists, the public, and schools; and WP7 ensures quality training for ESRs.
Campo scientifico
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Meccanismo di finanziamento
MSCA-ITN - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Innovative Training Networks (ITN)Coordinatore
08003 Barcelona
Spagna