GRK 2662:  “Charging into the Future": Understanding the Interaction of Polyelectrolytes with Biosystems

• Subject Area: Polymer Research ; Analytical Chemistry ; Chemical Solid State and Surface Research ; Physical Chemistry
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 434130070

Polyelectrolytes are linear or branched macromolecules that carry multiple charged groups. Natural polyelectrolytes such as DNA, proteins, and heparin play essential roles in virtually all biochemical processes. Understanding the fundamental forces that govern their interactions with biomolecules is key to advancing applications such as the rational design of therapeutic lead compounds. To address these challenges, the International Research Training Group (IRTG) fosters close collaboration between researchers at Freie Universität Berlin (Germany), McGill University, and the University of British Columbia (Canada), bringing together complementary expertise across disciplines. Since 2021, research at Freie Universität Berlin is funded by the DFG and focuses on the physical and chemical principles underlying polyelectrolyte interactions with biological systems. Canadian partners, supported by NSERC since 2023, apply these insights to pharmaceutical contexts, bridging basic science with translational research. The research of the IRTG is structured around three main themes: (A) Polyelectrolyte–biomolecule interactions, addressing fundamental mechanisms and theoretical modeling; (B) Cellular interactions with polyelectrolytes, exploring complex systems such as neuronal cells; and (C) Polyelectrolyte behavior in complex environments, including interactions with blood components and the delivery of mRNA via lipid nanoparticles. These themes are tightly interconnected and supported by regular exchange and joint projects across institutions. In parallel, the IRTG offers a comprehensive, interdisciplinary training program for doctoral researchers, coordinated by leading scientists from diverse fields. Doctoral candidates gain international research experience through six-month research exchanges, and benefit from an integrated curriculum that includes lectures, workshops, symposia, and collaborations with industry partners. Through this unique structure, the IRTG aims to equip the next generation of scientists with the skills and knowledge to tackle complex (bio)chemical challenges related to polyelectrolyte systems with high biomedical relevance.

• DFG Programme: International Research Training Groups
• International Connection: Canada
• Applicant Institution: Freie Universität Berlin
• IRTG-Partner Institution: University of British Columbia; McGill University
• Spokesperson: Professor Dr. Kevin Pagel
• Participating Researchers: Dr. Katharina Achazi; Professor Dr. Stephan Block; Dr. Johanna Elter; Professor Dr. Rainer Haag; Professorin Dr. Bettina Keller; Professorin Dr. Beate Koksch; Professor Dr. Roland Netz; Dr. Marina Pigaleva; Professor Dr. Thomas Risse
• IRTG-Partner: Spokesperson: Professor Jayachandran Kizhakkedathu, Ph.D.