Project description
Interconnection of spatial chromosome structure and function
The spatial structure of the genome is critical for its biological function. The goal of the EU-funded LoopingDNA project is to understand the fundamental interconnection of structure and function of chromosomes using a biophysics approach. Research will focus on structural maintenance of chromosomes' (SMC) protein complexes, ring-shaped proteins that create large loops of DNA thought to be the basis of chromosome structure. The experiments will help answer open questions of how SMCs handle natural chromosomal fibres loaded with DNA-binding proteins and regulate gene expression. The researchers will even aim to build a chromosome from the bottom up, using a ‘genome-in-a-box’ approach, where a genome-length bare DNA is added SMC protein complexes and other DNA-processing proteins. This unique bottom-up approach may generate a radically new understanding of the physical forces and protein systems that shape chromosomes.
Topic(s)
Call for proposal
ERC-2019-ADG
See other projects for this call
Funding Scheme
ERC-ADG - Advanced GrantHost institution
2628 CN Delft
Netherlands
Beneficiaries (1)
2628 CN Delft