Transpol
is an interdisciplinary initial stage training network (ITN) at the interface of cell/molecular biology and membrane physics. This ITN aims specifically towards the molecular understanding of the functional relationship between intracellular trafficking and cellular signalling and their relevance to human diseases. The importance of intracellular trafficking processes as an integral part of signalling has only recently received broader attention and demands further in-depth analysis. A complete understanding of the complex picture of endocytosis, intracellular trafficking, and signalling that takes place at the membrane/cytosol interface involves major mechanical and dynamical aspects of membrane physics and thus requires combined expertise from the field of cell/molecular biology and physics. This ITN combines exactly this expertise in one joint training program for young researchers. Within this ITN we have assembled a unique multidisciplinary consortium bringing together top scientists from the field of cell biology, biochemistry, physics, and specialists from the private sector. The scientific objectives will concentrate on a better understanding of ligand/receptor-mediated signalling mechanisms across the membrane, the lipid/protein interface in endocytosis, the signalling properties of endosomes, and deregulated trafficking and signalling pathways in disease. TRANSPOL will train young researcher in novel photonic tools like optical stretcher and optical tweezers technology as well as micro-rheology together with computer simulations and Atomic Force Microscopy to understand the fundamental mechanical and dynamic properties of lipid membranes. In addition, TRANSPOL offers in-depth training in cell biology, protein- and lipid-biochemistry, protein design and systems biology.