The EU-funded 7th Framework Programme (FP7) Initial Training Network (ITN) SNAL has the main objective to train a new cohort of researchers with systemic thinking equipped with generic skills in combining experimental studies and computer simulations to prepare them for fruitful careers in academia and industry. One challenge for the project is the design and synthesis of novel biomaterials able to modify membrane properties. This requires deep understanding of the interactions of lipid membranes with nano- objects including functional biomimetic polymers, polymeric micelles, carbon nanotubes and polymer therapeutic complexes/conjugates to enable the intelligent design of novel materials with improved bilayer modifying properties.
The aim of this project is to understand the interactions of lipid membranes with nano-objects including functional biomimetic polymers, polymeric micelles, carbon nanotubes and polymer therapeutic complexes/conjugates to enable the intelligent design of novel materials with improved bilayer modifying properties.
The project combines computer simulations, chemical synthesis, clinical and industrial expertise, physical and biological experiments.
Complementarity of partner skills provides a logical basis for a collective training programme. The full cycle of the design process, from theoretical models to synthesis and experimental and clinical validation, is of particular importance for training of ESRs and their future career development.
The network has state-of-the-art skills and superb facilities for cutting edge research in chemical biology, synthetic chemistry, polymer chemistry and physics, physical chemistry, bio-nanosciences. A full range of experimental methods are available for the design, synthesis and characterisation of novel functional materials, which will be tested for their interactions with model phospholipid membranes and living cells, and their biomedical applications including drug delivery, cell preservation and personal products.
More details on SNAL
Dedicated web themed issue in Soft Matter journal
Interaction of nano-objects with lipid membranes
Composition of the network:
Coordinator: Vladimir Baulin, Univerisitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona
9 full partners and 3 associated partners from Spain, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Australia and Russia