Descripción del proyecto
Unos diminutos superhéroes coloidales podrían tener unos grandes poderes para el diagnóstico y el tratamiento
Las partículas coloidales son partículas de tamaño microscópico e incluso nanoscópico cuyas superficies pueden ser funcionalizadas. Sus grandes áreas superficiales respecto a lo reducido de su volumen implican que se puede cargar cada una con diversas moléculas para administrar y liberar fármacos o fijar patógenos y biomarcadores en el lugar objetivo, lo que podría dar lugar a potentes sistemas terapéuticos y de diagnóstico. Sin embargo, todavía no se ha explotado su potencial debido a las limitaciones técnicas del control de la actividad del receptor y la colocación. SuperCol planea obtener una visión más cercana de las superficies coloidales tanto visualmente como a través de la química del receptor. Las observaciones servirán de base para modelos que permitan racionalizar el diseño de partículas superselectivas y sensibles que hagan posible la captura (de biomarcadores de enfermedad) o la liberación (de productos terapéuticos) a demanda.
Objetivo
SuperCol will train a new generation of scientists in modern super-resolution microscopy and particle functionalisation for improved colloidal design and nanoscale interfacial control for particle-based biosensing. Colloidal-particle-based materials have shown unique abilities in (bio)sensing and other applications because of their large surface-to-volume ratio and biochemical functionalisation. However, we have had only limited success in controlling the sensing properties and cannot yet realise the sensitivity, selectivity and kinetic control that is achieved by e.g. cellular sensing networks. In order to realise this we need to initiate a paradigm shift and create surfaces with a quantified and rationally designed number, distribution, and activity of receptors. To achieve this, we need to understand the structure-function relation between the loading patterns and the sensing characteristics. At this moment, we do not know: (1) how to accurately visualise individual receptors on colloidal surfaces, (2) how to influence the number, distribution and activity of receptors and (3) how this surface organisation translates to highly desired functionalities such as responsiveness and super-selectivity. Super-resolution imaging, advanced particle surface chemistry and advanced modelling will allow to bridge these gaps. However, the field lacks the human capital that can oversee and bridge these disciplines to advance these approaches and effectively (a) control, (b) visualise and quantify, and (c) rationally design surface-functionality to advance particle-based biomedical applications. SuperCol will train the next generation of researchers to overcome this barrier, and will develop e.g. super-selective biosensors for dengue and cholera, and responsive particles that allow biomolecules to be captured (e.g. inflammation markers) and released (e.g. doxorubicin) on demand.
Ámbito científico
- engineering and technologyelectrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineeringelectronic engineeringsensorsbiosensors
- engineering and technologyenvironmental biotechnologybiosensing
- natural sciencesbiological sciencesbiochemistrybiomolecules
- natural sciencesphysical sciencesopticsmicroscopysuper resolution microscopy
Palabras clave
Programa(s)
Régimen de financiación
MSCA-ITN - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Innovative Training Networks (ITN)Coordinador
5612 AE Eindhoven
Países Bajos