The grant was awarded for the project Artificial molecular intelligence in synthetic cells that aims to build intelligence into artificial chemical cells.
Alex explains about the project: “The overarching goal of this project is to engineer molecular and cellular intelligence in abiotic reaction networks and synthetic cells. Towards this goal, we will engineer artificial signaling pathways that are encoded to the highest specificity and potency at the same time. Pioneering tools of time-resolved, discrete transmembrane signaling and catalysis will be developed whereby signaling impulses are defined by amplitude and by duration in time. Molecular opportunities as these shape up the intelligence of cells in nature, enable adaptations and responses, comprise the mechanisms of evolution. We aim to engineer these opportunities in abiotic reaction networks and artificial cells. The results of this project will form the point of origin of molecular decision making and artificial evolution in synthetic cells.”
The Zelikin Lab is open to collaborations and discussions. All those who are interested can contact Alex by email zelikin@chem.au.dk
