CReaNet — Chemical Reaction Networks: signal amplification, spatiotemporal control, and materials

Results in brief

Chemical Reaction Networks: signal amplification, spatiotemporal control, and materials

CRNs are ubiquitous in nature to control signaling, protein synthesis, and homeostasis. CReaNet developed (biocompatible) CRNs with tuneable feedback mechanisms resulting in life-like functions. We developed CRNs in homogeneous environments (WP1), controlling spatiotemporal behaviour (WP2), and integrating them into materials (WP3). Key findings were artificial microtubules, and so-called "shunts" in CRNs, similar to ones that regulate respiration and metabolism. In order to get spatiotemporal control we developed on-chip coupled reactors or connected liposomes. In fluidic chips, we have seen propagation of waves akin signalling waves and patterns that are ubiquitous in nature. Lastly, we have developed a number of novel (bio)materials with life-like functions. Importantly, this project has trained 15 researchers with intricate knowledge of CRNs and coupling to fluidics/materials that are moving to careers in industry and academia, continuing to pioneer applications in a chemical, biological, or forensic setting.

Data: CORDIS, © European Union

Project objective

Chemical reaction networks are ubiquitous in living systems, and hold great promise for the generation of future ultrasensitive sensors, for finding advanced production schemes towards high value chemicals and for enabling future autonomous and adaptive materials. To become a technology leader in this area, it is imperative for EU to invest in i) training highly skilled researchers and ii) conducting research interfacing fundamental sciences and technologically relevant applications. This ETN focuses on strengthening EU’s innovation capacity via an integrative EU doctoral training on “Chemical Reaction Networks: signal amplification, spatiotemporal control, and materials”. It brings together an interdisciplinary team of 6 proven academic experts and 4 non-academic partners to inspire and educate a new generation of ESRs (early stage researchers) to become leaders in this emerging research area of chemical reaction networks – a subject which is not specifically taught at EU universities. We provide the ESRs with a comprehensive, structured, interdisciplinary and intersectorial training, and bridge fundamental research and applications with a cutting-edge research program. The objective of the research program is to unravel design principles for chemical reaction networks, find pathways to modulate them from the outside, and develop them towards applications for ultrasensitive sensors and autonomous materials with time-programmed operation. The close interaction between academia and private sector will ensure a multifaceted view, and a swift transfer of fundamental discoveries to applications. The intersectorial partner setting, together with the balanced training of research-related and transferable skills, will enhance the career perspectives of the ESRs in both the academic and non-academic sectors. This ETN will form ESRs with highest levels of creativity, innovation capabilities and entrepreneurial mindsets, and thus promote EU leadership in nanosciences.

Original text from CORDIS.

Participants

UNIVERSITE DE STRASBOURG · StrasbourgCoordinatorFrance
ALBERT-LUDWIGS-UNIVERSITAET FREIBURG · FreiburgGermany
CHALMERS TEKNISKA HOGSKOLA AB · GoteborgSweden
ELVESYS · PARISFrance
IBM RESEARCH GMBH · RUESCHLIKONSwitzerland
JOHANNES GUTENBERG-UNIVERSITAT MAINZ · MainzGermany
MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · CambridgeUnited States
NANOTEMPER TECHNOLOGIES GMBH · MUNCHENGermany
Netherlands Forensic Institute · The HagueNetherlands
TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITEIT DELFT · DelftNetherlands
THE CITY UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK CORPORATION · New YorkUnited States
THE UNIVERSITY OF SHEFFIELD · SHEFFIELDUnited Kingdom
TRUSTEES OF COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY IN THE CITY OF NEW YORK · New YorkUnited States
WEIZMANN INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE · RehovotIsrael

CReaNet · Chemical Reaction Networks: signal amplification, spatiotemporal control, and materials

Results in brief

Chemical Reaction Networks: signal amplification, spatiotemporal control, and materials

Project objective

Participants

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