CA25160 - European Research Network on the Dynamic Modulation of Membrane Protein Function (DYNAMO)

Membrane proteins (MPs) are central mediators for key physiological processes such as cellular communication and homeostasis and are major targets for drug development. 

Despite major technological advances that have transformed structural biology in recent years, our understanding of MP dynamics remains fundamentally incomplete, limiting mechanistic insight into MP function and the development of effective therapeutic interventions. Critical questions persist regarding the functional role and structure of transient conformational states, the mechanisms linking dynamics to biological activity, the impact of cellular microenvironments on MP dynamics, the molecular consequences of disease-associated mutations, and how to exploit this efficiently in drug development strategies. DYNAMO aims to establish a pan-European network that brings together researchers across diverse MP families, complementary methodological disciplines, and industry partners to address the complexity of MP dynamics.

By uniting previously separated scientific communities, DYNAMO will advance the understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing MP function through five dedicated Working Groups (WGs). These WGs will be focused on: (i) developing strategies for method and data integration to study MP conformations and dynamics; (ii) structurally characterizing  transient conformations and their functional impact; (iii) elucidating the influence of microenvironmental factors on MP conformational transitions; (iv) establishing innovative strategies for the design of modulators of functionally relevant MP conformers; and (v) ensuring the effective dissemination and transfer of the generated knowledge. The Action will lay the foundation for a sustainable and interconnected European research community on MP dynamics capable of driving breakthroughs in fundamental science, drug discovery and biotechnology well beyond its duration.