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Uncovering the function of novel cytoskeletal polymers in the extreme mechanics of eukaryotic cells

Objective

The ability of eukaryotic cells to generate and resist mechanical forces, locomote and spatially organize their subcellular structures relies on the cytoskeleton. The hallmark of cytoskeletal proteins is their ability to polymerize into filaments, which in turn organize into cellular-scale networks that support a variety of functions that require the generation of mechanical force. Decades of work have significantly increased our knowledge of the composition and mechanisms of force generation by networks of actin, tubulin and intermediate filaments. In contrast, the mechanisms and function of cytoskeletal networks, whose primary component is centrin remain unexplored. Centrins are conserved proteins across all eukaryotes that localize ubiquitously to microtubule organizing centers. In unicellular eukaryotes, centrins form filaments and networks that support the extreme morphodynamics required for the behavioral responses of these free living organisms. By combining approaches from cell biology and biophysics we will establish the function of centrin as a cytoskeletal polymer and uncover the mechanisms by which it assembles into large-scale structures capable of force generation in ultrafast timescales. Our studies will establish novel mechanisms by which cytoskeletal networks generate, transmit and respond to mechanical signals. Beyond their biological significance, our findings will provide blueprints for the design of novel bio-inspired materials capable of withstanding large strains and undergoing extreme elastic deformations.

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Keywords

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Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

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HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants

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Call for proposal

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(opens in new window) ERC-2025-STG

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Host institution

ECOLE POLYTECHNIQUE FEDERALE DE LAUSANNE
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 1 495 945,00
Address
BATIMENT CE 3316 STATION 1
1015 LAUSANNE
Switzerland

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Region
Schweiz/Suisse/Svizzera Région lémanique Vaud
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 1 495 945,00

Beneficiaries (1)

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