Twinning project will train researchers in advanced electron microscopy
ITQB NOVA is the coordinator of IMpaCT, a Twinning project funded by Horizon 2020 that aims to train the institute researchers and the Portuguese Scientific Community to use high-end instruments of Cryoelectron microscopy (Cryo-EM). The goal is to prepare the community to use a much sought-after infrastructure dedicated to Cryo-EM that would include a mid-range 5M€ microscope. The microscope would allow the visualization of individual protein molecules, protein complexes, and cellular structures, facilitating their study and application in areas such as the pharmaceutical industry.
Proteins are building blocks of life, and often form complexes with essential roles in the cell. The structure and regulation of protein complexes allow for robust molecular homeostatic mechanisms. Thus, access and expertise to modern methodologies developed recently in structural biology are essential for the study of life itself. To make the most of these methodologies, it is essential to have the correct training.
Through IMpaCT, ITQB NOVA researchers will have access to international partners such as the National Centre for Biotechnology from the Spanish National Research Council, the Institute of Biotechnology from the University of Helsinki, Finland, and the Weizmann Institute of Sciences, Israel, all of which are well-equipped with Cryo-EM instruments and have highly-trained technical staff to assist in its efficient use. The knowledge transfer will allow obtaining expertise in sample preparation, image acquisition to high resolution and data processing. Thus, IMpaCT will be a fundamental instrument to develop the applications of Cryo-EM to life sciences research at UNL-ITQB NOVA.
The IMpaCT kick-off meeting will take place on 15-16 September, followed by an open workshop on 17-20 September at ITQB NOVA in Oeiras, dedicated to data processing. Several other activities will take place over three years, strengthening the network and the scientific projects involved.
