Objetivo
The success of the human genome sequencing project means that DNA sequence information is one of the greatest stores of information and is now of interest to individuals. We will initiate work to construct a single-molecule DNA-sequencing device, but closely linked to this development process, we will also construct a nano-switch, based on a biological molecular motor and a moving magnetic bead. This device will provide a link between the biological world and the silicon-based microelectronics world. Such a device is likely to find longer-term uses in the development of a wide range of devices from biosensors to 'new generation' prosthetics and artificial limbs constructed with controlling computer devices. In addition, the magnetic bead attached to DNA can be used in the single-molecule DNA sequencing apparatus (to overcome coiling due to entropy) and for monitoring the movement of the DNA molecule. The success of the human genome sequencing project means that DNA sequence information is one of the greatest stores of information and is now of interest to individuals. We will initiate work to construct a single-molecule DNA-sequencing device, but closely linked to this development process, we will also construct a nano-switch, based on a biological molecular motor and a moving magnetic bead. This device will provide a link between the biological world and the silicon-based microelectronics world. Such a device is likely to find longer-term uses in the development of a wide range of devices from biosensors to 'new generation' prosthetics and artificial limbs constructed with controlling computer devices. In addition, the magnetic bead attached to DNA can be used in the single-molecule DNA sequencing apparatus (to overcome coiling due to entropy) and for monitoring the movement of the DNA molecule.
OBJECTIVES
- Site-directed mutagenesis of the motor subunit of the molecular motor to produce a motor that cannot cleave DNA;
- Determine the activity of the molecular motor (enzyme) in nano-grooves and therefore, determine the effect of large surface areas on motor activity;
- Determine the precise forces generated by the molecular motors when moving DNA, using single-molecule techniques;
- Develop single-molecule handling techniques to allow us to easily and reliably manipulate a biological, DNA-based molecular motor attached to a single DNA molecule;
- Produce highly magnetic nanoparticles for attaching to DNA in the above nano-groove;
- Investigate a variety of methods for reading DNA sequence during translocation of DNA past a sensor;
- Investigate novel DNA sequencing methods based on force microscopy;
- Develop a sensor for detecting movement of the magnetic nano-particle;
- Initiate development of an integrated system that could rapidly lead to future development of a single-molecule DNA sequencing device.
DESCRIPTION OF WORK
We have available a number of unique DNA-based molecular motors that differ from other DNA-based motors in that they do not track along DNA in a linear fashion, but move the DNA toward the bound motor/DNA complex. As such they are nano-actuators capable of moving any object attached to the end of the DNA toward the motor/DNA complex. One example of such a motor is a type I restriction-modification enzyme, which could under certain circumstances cleave the DNA. To remove this possibility we will alter the amino acids required for this function using site-directed mutagenesis. We will then assay activity of a variety of motors, at low concentration, in silicon microwells and channels to determine whether silicon surfaces interfere with motor activity. Single molecule handling techniques will be used to precisely determine the force generated by the motor molecules. In addition, force microscopy techniques will be explored as a method for detecting single base-pair mis-matches in DNA sequences, providing an alternative technology for reading important DNA information. A variety of methods will be used to determine the easiest and most reliable method for localising a single DNA molecule in a sub-micron silicon groove. In parallel to the above work, we will develop novel nano-scale magnetic particles and investigate their magnetic properties using a variety of techniques including micro-SQUID, Hall-effect sensors and Magnetic Force Microscopy (MFM). This will lead to the development of a nano-sensor for detecting magnetic field changes. Finally, we will investigate the potential for fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) and scanning near-field optical microscope (SNOM) with fluorophores located at the end of nanotubes will be used to detect the movement of DNA past the sensor. This will allow us to evaluate each technique as a potential means for reading the DNA sequence on a single molecule.
Ámbito científico (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS clasifica los proyectos con EuroSciVoc, una taxonomía plurilingüe de ámbitos científicos, mediante un proceso semiautomático basado en técnicas de procesamiento del lenguaje natural. Véas: El vocabulario científico europeo..
CORDIS clasifica los proyectos con EuroSciVoc, una taxonomía plurilingüe de ámbitos científicos, mediante un proceso semiautomático basado en técnicas de procesamiento del lenguaje natural. Véas: El vocabulario científico europeo..
- ciencias naturales ciencias biológicas genética ADN
- ciencias naturales ciencias físicas óptica microscopía
- ciencias naturales ciencias físicas electromagnetismo y electrónica microelectrónica
- ciencias naturales ciencias químicas química inorgánica metaloides
- ciencias naturales ciencias biológicas bioquímica biomoléculas proteínas enzima
Para utilizar esta función, debe iniciar sesión o registrarse
Programa(s)
Programas de financiación plurianuales que definen las prioridades de la UE en materia de investigación e innovación.
Programas de financiación plurianuales que definen las prioridades de la UE en materia de investigación e innovación.
Tema(s)
Las convocatorias de propuestas se dividen en temas. Un tema define una materia o área específica para la que los solicitantes pueden presentar propuestas. La descripción de un tema comprende su alcance específico y la repercusión prevista del proyecto financiado.
Las convocatorias de propuestas se dividen en temas. Un tema define una materia o área específica para la que los solicitantes pueden presentar propuestas. La descripción de un tema comprende su alcance específico y la repercusión prevista del proyecto financiado.
Convocatoria de propuestas
Procedimiento para invitar a los solicitantes a presentar propuestas de proyectos con el objetivo de obtener financiación de la UE.
Datos no disponibles
Procedimiento para invitar a los solicitantes a presentar propuestas de proyectos con el objetivo de obtener financiación de la UE.
Régimen de financiación
Régimen de financiación (o «Tipo de acción») dentro de un programa con características comunes. Especifica: el alcance de lo que se financia; el porcentaje de reembolso; los criterios específicos de evaluación para optar a la financiación; y el uso de formas simplificadas de costes como los importes a tanto alzado.
Régimen de financiación (o «Tipo de acción») dentro de un programa con características comunes. Especifica: el alcance de lo que se financia; el porcentaje de reembolso; los criterios específicos de evaluación para optar a la financiación; y el uso de formas simplificadas de costes como los importes a tanto alzado.
Coordinador
PO1 2UP PORTSMOUTH
Reino Unido
Los costes totales en que ha incurrido esta organización para participar en el proyecto, incluidos los costes directos e indirectos. Este importe es un subconjunto del presupuesto total del proyecto.