Data-Gouv-ML/pcri-actions-marie-curie-participations-et-projets-laureats huggingface dataset:
Projet 3D-TOPO (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2024)
Action : Staff Exchanges
Panel : Physics
Statut du projet : SIGNED

The 3D-TOPO project uncovers novel topological states in solid and soft ferroelectric materials, exploring their intricate polarization structures and interactions in confined geometries. By combining advanced experimental techniques with cutting-edge theoretical models, the project seeks to create a complete 3D map of these topological states at the micro- and nanoscale. Focusing on ferroelectric nanoparticles, nanodots, nanorods, and twisted bilayers, as well as confined nematic ferroelectric liquid crystals, 3D-TOPO examines topological states like vortices, helicoidal structures, and Hopfions, revealing the innovative manipulation methods by them. A key innovation of this project lies in its groundbreaking integration of solid and soft ferroelectrics to investigate topological excitations. This approach has not been previously explored in this context. The project employs a novel methodology for 3D reconstruction of polarization topology, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of these materials. The project pioneers the technology of switchable chirality in ferroelectric nanostructures, offering great potential for applications in fields such as optoelectronics and nanophotonics. This initiative will foster a deeper understanding of fundamental material science through interdisciplinary collaboration while opening pathways for technological advancements in fields ranging from non-binary computing circuits to optoelectronics and bio-medicine. The consortium includes recognized institutions, the University of Picardie (UPJV, France), the Institute of Catalan Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2, Spain), the Jožef Stefan Institute (JSI, Slovenia), the National Scientific and Technical Research Council of Argentina (CONICET, Argentina), Kent State University (KSU, USA), ensuring a robust international and interdisciplinary approach.

Mots clés : ferroelectrics, liquid crystals, topological states

Participants :
- Institut Jožef Stefan (Slovénie) — Partner, beneficiary, Recherche, subvention : 511020.0 €
- Conseil national de la recherche scientifique et technique (Argentine) — Partner, associated partner, Recherche, subvention : 0.0 €
- Université d'État de Kent (Etats-Unis) — Partner, associated partner, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 0.0 €
- Université de Picardie Jules Verne (France) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 325650.0 €
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (Espagne) — Partner, beneficiary, Recherche, subvention : 280560.0 €
Projet comfortA (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2019)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - Global Fellowships
Panel : Information Science and Engineering
Statut du projet : SIGNED

Much of the effort in thermal comfort research has been given to understand which environmental and personal steady-state conditions lead to thermal comfort. This focus on static and isothermal states has been translated in the prescription of fixed set-point temperatures in buildings. Now, a paradigm shift in the way energy is generated and used calls for a complete rethink of the way buildings are designed and operated. In contrast to a fixed set-point driven design, the implementation of set-point modulations in buildings allows to shift and/or shave heating and cooling peak loads and contributes to boost buildings’ flexibility. However, a scarce knowledge of the effect of dynamic indoor conditions on occupants’ thermal comfort still prevents the design and adoption of comfortable temperature fluctuations. While big advancements have been made in modelling the physics of the heat and mass transfer into and out of the human body (i.e. the passive system of multi-segmental dynamic models of human thermoregulation), still very little is known on how the brain processes and integrates sensory inputs to create thermal perceptions, particularly during dynamic indoor conditions. The proposed research project aims to address this knowledge deficit by shedding new light on the psycho-physiological mechanisms driving the dynamic thermal perception, with a particular focus on the phenomena of thermal alliesthesia and thermal adaptation, and by creating a more accurate predictive thermal comfort model, which is able to better account for these two phenomena. This project will provide the research community with a new robust set of empirical data, novel knowledge and a novel physiological-based dynamic thermal comfort model, which has the potential to revolutionize the way professionals and researchers design and operate indoor comfort systems: not just aiming for thermal neutrality but striving for thermal delight.

Mots clés : thermal comfort, dynamic indoor conditions, flexible buildings, thermal alliesthesia, thermal adaptation

Participants :
- University of Sydney (Australie) — Partner, organization partner, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 0.0 €
- La Rochelle Université (France) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 220958.88 €
Projet HaloCat (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2019)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Chemistry
Statut du projet : CLOSED

Multi-halogenated compounds play a significant role in our daily life, as they are not only widely used as materials, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals but also serve as practical and indispensable building blocks in the chemical industry. However, most of the existing halogenating protocols suffer from safety risks and harsh reaction conditions caused by toxic and corrosive halogenating reagents (Cl2, Br2). Moreover, the enantioselective 1,2-dihalogenation of alkenes remains an unmet challenge. Besides, practical approaches to the versatile 1,2-bromofluorine-containing building blocks are exceedingly rare. Recently, the shuttle catalysis strategy, which reversibly transfers a chemical moiety between two molecules to construct and deconstruct compounds without handling hazardous reagents, is emerging as a potential strategy to tackle these long-standing challenges. This proposal aims to achieve the shuttle catalysis enabled reversible interconversion of 1,2-dihalides and alkenes/alkynes without using or releasing hazardous chemicals (e.g., Br2, Cl2, and BrF) under mild conditions. The first part is devoted to developing the reversible interconversion between 1,2-dihalides and alkenes. The second part aims to realize the enantioselective Br2 transfer between 1,2-dihalides and alkenes. The last part proposes to develop the unprecedented formal transfer 1,2-bromofluorination of alkenes via a unique self-correcting mechanism. The world-leading research environment of ETH Zurich combined with Prof. Morandi’s unrivaled scientific expertise on shuttle catalysis and my excellent knowledge of asymmetric catalysis offer the best combination to achieve the proposed research. This fellowship will dramatically improve my knowledge and competences, helping me launch my independent career. With promising preliminary results demonstrating the project’s feasibility, the proposed work will significantly contribute to the research excellence and sustainable development of the EU.

Mots clés : carbon halogen bond formation, shuttle catalysis, reversible reaction, transfer chemistry, lewis base catalysis, halogenation, green chemistry, sustainable chemistry, 2 bromofluorination

Participants :
- Board of the Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology (Suisse) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 203149.44 €
Projet MITOQUAD (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2016)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Life Sciences
Statut du projet : CLOSED

Multiple deletions in mtDNA give rise to a variety of neuromuscular symptoms, often associated with genetic inherited disorders and aging and they have been reported in patients with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. In spite of its medical importance, not much is yet known about the mechanisms by which mtDNA deletions are formed. Progressive external ophtalmoplegia (PEO) is one of the conditions characterized by the accumulation of mtDNA deletions. This disease is caused by mutations in components of the mtDNA replication machinery, like the DNA polymerase γ (POLγ) and the replicative helicase TWINKLE. Recently, also the helicase-nuclease DNA2 has been found mutated in patients affected by this disorder. The precise function of human DNA2 (hDNA2) has remained elusive. hDNA2 localizes to mitochondria and has the biochemical properties to process four-stranded DNA structure (G-quadruplexes). Interestingly, G-quadruplex DNA associates with mtDNA deletions formation in human diseases. To dissect the mitochondrial role of hDNA2, I will focus on the mechanism of hDNA2 recruitment to mtDNA. Then I will address the role of DNA2 in mitochondria metabolism and in G-quadruplexes mtDNA metabolism and I will characterize the consequences of disease-associated mutations in DNA2 gene. I will employ a range of in vitro (based on recombinant protein) and in vivo (inducible cell systems and yeast model). The clarification of the hDNA2 mitochondrial biological function will help to elucidate the mechanism by which mtDNA deletions are formed in mitochondrial disorders. Moreover, MITOQUAD project will lead to a deeper understanding of how mtDNA integrity is maintained, a relevant question for understanding the early development and progress of a large number of mitochondrial disorders, in order to treat or prevent their occurrence.

Mots clés : dna2, progressive external ophtalmoplegia, mitochondrial dna replication, mtdna deletions, g quadruplexes

Participants :
- Umeå University (Suède) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 185857.2 €
Projet Myo_LysoZOOM (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2020)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - Global Fellowships
Panel : Life Sciences
Statut du projet : SIGNED

Muscle wasting is the severe and progressive loss of muscle mass experienced in different pathological conditions such as cancer. The outcome of this debilitating condition on human health is detrimental; the effect on society is a public health burden. Attenuating muscle wasting ameliorates prognosis and survival in some circumstances; nevertheless, to date, a proper therapy preventing muscle loss is lacking. Partially responsible for this, is the fragmented knowledge of the signals controlling muscle homeostasis. Here I propose Myo_LysoZOOM as the groundbreaking tool for unraveling the mysterious relationship between lysosomal signaling and muscle atrophy. Through the harmonic and complementary interaction between me and the two groundbreaking realities, Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research (MIT) and University of Padova, I will become the interpreter of this secret code named lysosomal signature in muscle wasting. Reinforcing my technical skills and boosting my scientific knowledge, this Marie Curie action will allow me to assume a unique prominent position in the European myology landscape. In turn, this will foster the development of a new research line through which I will be able to actively participate in the fighting against muscle wasting. Concluding, Myo_LysoZOOM will build a long-term terrific impact on European research, innovation, science and society.

Mots clés : muscle wasting, lysosome biology, skeletal muscle metabolism

Participants :
- University of Padua (Italie) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 269002.56 €
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Etats-Unis) — Partner, organization partner, Recherche, subvention : 0.0 €
Projet THaCH (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2015)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - Global Fellowships
Panel : Life Sciences
Statut du projet : CLOSED

Musculoskeletal disorders, particularly to the muscle-tendon unit, are a major cause of occupational disability in the European Union. The link between high cholesterol and poor tendon function has recently been demonstrated by several groups. However, the underlying pathophysiology of this association remains unknown. Cholesterol is known to leave the circulation and accumulate in extracellular matrix through interactions between LDL and glycosaminoglycans (GAG). Tendons are GAG rich in the interfascicular matrix (IFM: a tendon structure facilitating collagen fascicle sliding and extension). One putative mechanism by which high cholesterol may impact tendon function is an accumulation of cholesterol and LDL in the IFM, impairing fascicle sliding and extension. In addition, LDL readily becomes oxidized (oxLDL) when entrapped in the extravascular space, and recent data demonstrates this negatively impacts tendon cell phenotype, altering normal gene expression. This proposal aims to enhance our understanding of hypercholesterolemia on tendon health; a highly under-researched area of significant clinical importance. It employs expertise in tissue mechanics and tendon cell biology available at the host and external institutes to probe the mechanisms linking high cholesterol and tendon pathophysiology. The underlying hypotheses are that in individuals with elevated total cholesterol and/or LDL, cholesterol accumulates with LDL in GAG-rich areas of tendon like the IFM, inhibiting tendon biomechanical function. This hypothesis will be explored using suitable laboratory models, allowing the reversibility of these changes and their impact on tendon adaptation and healing to be examined. The findings will have immediate implications for orthopedic sciences, preventative medicine and rehabilitation services, strategies and technology. They have the potential to improve quality of life and reduce the socio-economic costs associated with orthopedic and musculoskeletal diseases.

Mots clés : hypercholesterolemia, lipidomics, tendinopathy, obesity

Participants :
- University of London (Royaume-Uni) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 237349.8 €
- University of British Columbia (Canada) — Partner, organization partner, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 0.0 €
Projet MTPHAGYTREAT (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2020)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Life Sciences
Statut du projet : CLOSED

Mutations in COX15 are associated to cytochrome c oxidase (COX) deficiency (OMIM: 220110), a mitochondrial disease characterized by inefficient energy production due to the accumulation of impaired mitochondria. The phenotype of a muscle-specific Cox15 knockout (Cox15sm/sm), a model of severe mitochondrial myopathy characterized by profound COX deficiency, was previously shown to be ameliorated by the coordinated induction of autophagy and lysosomal biogenesis via TFEB activation. Stimulation of mitophagy, a selective degradation of mitochondria by autophagy, is one attractive possibility to induce the elimination of damaged mitochondria and be used as a broad-spectrum treatment for mitochondrial dysfunctions. However, the role of mitophagy in this mitochondrial dysfunction was not investigated in detail. To clarify the role of mitophagy in the amelioration of Cox15sm/sm mice phenotype and explore its therapeutic potential, a Cox15sm/sm mito-QC reporter mouse has been created in the host laboratory. Mito-QC, a pH-sensitive mitochondrial targeted probe, will allow to assess unambiguously mitophagy at single cell resolution by the quantification of the number of mitolysosomes in COX-deficient myocytes. Likewise, the investigation of the mitophagy role in muscle regeneration in the Cox15sm/sm mice can have a high impact in mitochondrial diseases. MTPHAGYTREAT will thus create a new myoblast model for the evaluation of autophagy/mitophagy role in muscle regeneration. In addition, we will take advantage of Cox15sm/sm myoblasts and advanced imaging techniques to fast track the discovery of new drugs for the treatment of mitochondrial diseases by screening a library of natural compounds previously shown to be safe for humans, thus facilitating the eventual translation to the patients.

Mots clés : mitophagy, autophagy, mitochondria, drug discovery, microscopy

Participants :
- University of Padua (Italie) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 183473.28 €
Projet MiniBRAIN (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2017)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Life Sciences
Statut du projet : CLOSED

Mutations in TUBB2B are associated with a range of malformations of cortical development: severe structural brain disorders stemming from abnormal cerebral cortex formation. Functional investigation of TUBB2B mutations will enable us to elucidate distinct pathogenic mechanisms underlying various malformations and advance our understanding of normal brain development. TUBB2B is highly expressed during embryonic brain development. It encodes a major component of microtubules (MTs), which perform essential roles during neuronal proliferation, neuronal migration and cortical organisation. I have obtained preliminary data in non-neuronal cells that suggests certain (but not all) TUBB2B-related malformations result from impaired cell division during neurogenesis. This highlights a potential disease-specific mechanism. I will investigate this hypothesis using state-of-the-art induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and cerebral organoid (COs) technologies, more relevant to brain development. I will generate iPSCs from fibroblasts obtained from patients with specific TUBB2B genotypes and brain phenotypes. I will use CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to generate isogenic controls (in addition to a generic wild type line). Mutant and control iPSCs will be differentiated into a neural lineage to study effects of mutations on cell cycle and MT dynamics. Subsequently, differentiated cells will be aggregated into COs; self-organising ‘mini-brains’ that recapitulate human brain development and disease. I will employ immunohistochemistry and microscopy to examine TUBB2B mutation effects on neuronal proliferation, migration and organisation. I will hosted by Dr David Keays (IMP, Vienna). His lab are global leaders in tubulin-gene research and work in close collaboration with the pioneers in CO techniques (Knoblich Lab, IMBA, Vienna). Dissemination and communication of results will impact the scientific community, promote EU-based research and establish me as a reputable figure in the field.

Mots clés : tubb2b, tubulinopathy, tubulin, malformation of cortical development, cerebral rrganoid, induced pluripotent stem cell, schizencephaly, polymicrogyria, neurogenesis, cortical malformation

Participants :
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (Autriche) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Organismes privés (hors enseignement), subvention : 166156.8 €
Projet TEMPNET (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2017)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Environment and Geosciences
Statut du projet : CLOSED

Mutualistic interactions (such as pollination or seed dispersal) structure biodiversity and provide essential services and functions, allowing its persistence. Understanding the threats imposed to biodiversity by human activities (i.e. climate change), needs assessing how these ecological systems change in time. Accelerated climate change has worldwide impacts on organisms, and has been demonstrated to modify their timing, such as advanced growing seasons of plants or shifts in migratory rhythms of birds. The TEMPNET proposal aims at evaluating how phenological changes in interacting plant and animals affect their dynamics over seasonal and long-term timespans. We will use a new multidisciplinary approach that combines state-of-the-art mathematical advances in multilayer network analysis, sound ecological theory, outstanding climatological research and field observations. TEMPNET will combine two temporal scales (frequent intra-annual censuses and long-term replication with 15 or 37 yrs of time span) and will compare mutualistic networks of two study sites: a seed dispersal network from the Doñana National Park (Spain) and a pollination network from Zackenberg Reserve (Greenland, Denmark). We will take advantage of previously gathered data, and a new field season is planned in Doñana with the same sampling methodology. Previous experience of the applicant on plant-animal interactions and phenology will be complemented with new acquired skills on network analytics, being the supervisor of the proposal a world-known expert on ecological networks. This proposal is expected to help gaining: 1) an in-depth understanding of the temporal dynamics of ecological interactions; and 2) informed forecasting of future impacts of climate change on the structure and function of biodiversity.

Mots clés : do ana national park, zackenberg reserve, plant animal interactions, frugivory, pollination, seed dispersal

Participants :
- Spanish National Research Council (Espagne) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Recherche, subvention : 170121.6 €
Projet MiMoZa (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2019)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - Global Fellowships
Panel : Life Sciences
Statut du projet : SIGNED

My goal is to determine horizontal gene transfer (HGT) rates of specific functions within the gut microbiome. The microbes on and within our bodies, especially within our gastro-intestinal tract, are intimately connected with our immune system and promote health in myriad ways. Altering our gut microbiota (GM) composition and/or function might thus improve health. My research in the Jeroen Raes lab led to the realization that changing species abundances through dietary or lifestyle modulation may be difficult because of the small effect sizes of the factors influencing GM composition (e.g. diet, medication, or transit time). In addition, host-selection and competition of resident microbes, might limit the strain engraftment necessary for the effect of fecal transfers and probiotic cocktails. Despite initial successes (e.g. C. difficile infection treatment), current modulation strategies might therefore be less successful with other conditions. I contacted Ilana Brito, in order to find out whether HGT - a process in which prokaryotes exchange genetic material - may serve as an alternative way to modulate the residing GM. Little is known about the features that affect HGT rates within natural environments nor the role of selection in that process. If these were well-understood, it would allow to assess the possibilities of extending the gut microbiome with additional functions. During my research stay, I will experimentally determine HGT rates within the animal gut under natural and HGT-enhancing conditions. In addition, I will develop methods to examine HGT in metagenomic datasets and determine the relative importance of the factors influencing HGT (selective pressure, host health and DNA delivery method). The knowledge generated through this MSCA-fellowship will stimulate the development of novel GM modulation strategies and will have important implications for human health and agricultural policies (e.g. antibiotic use, spread of transgenes).

Mots clés : gut microbiota, metagenomics, horizontal gene transfer, antibiotic resistance, genetically modified organisms

Participants :
- Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (Belgique) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Recherche, subvention : 266425.92 €
- Cornell University (Etats-Unis) — Partner, organization partner, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 0.0 €