VW Stiftung: The Fourth Dimension: Integration of time to shape co-operativity and survival in the biosphere
- Projektleiterin: Prof. Martha Merrow, Ph.D.
- Einrichtung: Institut für Medizinische Psychologie
- Förderung durch die VW Stiftung: 2017 bis 2021
Biodiversity is a sign of ecological health. Models to explain this phenomenon have largely ignored temporal structures, such as the 24 h day. The researchers involved in this project have found that daily, cycling "Zeitgebers" of the circadian clock support microbial co-existence. They will explore this phenomenon through integration of minimalistic systems in vitro, in in vivo genetic models and by using mathematical models. Basic rules of temporal structuring that foster biodiversity, as well as the molecular pathways that are invoked in the process will be identified. This work explores integration of the physical environment into cell biology in a completely novel approach to understanding the foundations of population structure.
The funding initiative "Life? – A Fresh Scientific Approach to the Basic Principles of Life"by the Volkswagen Foundation aims to support unique and excellent projects at the interface between the natural and life sciences with this particular focus.
Quelle: VW Stiftung