Project acronym ADDICTIONCIRCUITS
Project Drug addiction: molecular changes in reward and aversion circuits
Researcher (PI) Nils David Engblom
Host Institution (HI) LINKOPINGS UNIVERSITET
Call Details Starting Grant (StG), LS5, ERC-2010-StG_20091118
Summary Our affective and motivational state is important for our decisions, actions and quality of life. Many pathological conditions affect this state. For example, addictive drugs are hyperactivating the reward system and trigger a strong motivation for continued drug intake, whereas many somatic and psychiatric diseases lead to an aversive state, characterized by loss of motivation. I will study specific neural circuits and mechanisms underlying reward and aversion, and how pathological signaling in these systems can trigger relapse in drug addiction.
Given the important role of the dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain for many aspects of reward signaling, I will study how synaptic plasticity in these cells, and in their target neurons in the striatum, contribute to relapse in drug seeking. I will also study the circuits underlying aversion. Little is known about these circuits, but my hypothesis is that an important component of aversion is signaled by a specific neuronal population in the brainstem parabrachial nucleus, projecting to the central amygdala. We will test this hypothesis and also determine how this aversion circuit contributes to the persistence of addiction and to relapse.
To dissect this complicated system, I am developing new genetic methods for manipulating and visualizing specific functional circuits in the mouse brain. My unique combination of state-of-the-art competence in transgenics and cutting edge knowledge in the anatomy and functional organization of the circuits behind reward and aversion should allow me to decode these systems, linking discrete circuits to behavior.
Collectively, the results will indicate how signals encoding aversion and reward are integrated to control addictive behavior and they may identify novel avenues for treatment of drug addiction as well as aversion-related symptoms affecting patients with chronic inflammatory conditions and cancer.
Summary
Our affective and motivational state is important for our decisions, actions and quality of life. Many pathological conditions affect this state. For example, addictive drugs are hyperactivating the reward system and trigger a strong motivation for continued drug intake, whereas many somatic and psychiatric diseases lead to an aversive state, characterized by loss of motivation. I will study specific neural circuits and mechanisms underlying reward and aversion, and how pathological signaling in these systems can trigger relapse in drug addiction.
Given the important role of the dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain for many aspects of reward signaling, I will study how synaptic plasticity in these cells, and in their target neurons in the striatum, contribute to relapse in drug seeking. I will also study the circuits underlying aversion. Little is known about these circuits, but my hypothesis is that an important component of aversion is signaled by a specific neuronal population in the brainstem parabrachial nucleus, projecting to the central amygdala. We will test this hypothesis and also determine how this aversion circuit contributes to the persistence of addiction and to relapse.
To dissect this complicated system, I am developing new genetic methods for manipulating and visualizing specific functional circuits in the mouse brain. My unique combination of state-of-the-art competence in transgenics and cutting edge knowledge in the anatomy and functional organization of the circuits behind reward and aversion should allow me to decode these systems, linking discrete circuits to behavior.
Collectively, the results will indicate how signals encoding aversion and reward are integrated to control addictive behavior and they may identify novel avenues for treatment of drug addiction as well as aversion-related symptoms affecting patients with chronic inflammatory conditions and cancer.
Max ERC Funding
1 500 000 €
Duration
Start date: 2010-10-01, End date: 2015-09-30
Project acronym AFRODITE
Project Advanced Fluid Research On Drag reduction In Turbulence Experiments
Researcher (PI) Jens Henrik Mikael Fransson
Host Institution (HI) KUNGLIGA TEKNISKA HOEGSKOLAN
Call Details Starting Grant (StG), PE8, ERC-2010-StG_20091028
Summary A hot topic in today's debate on global warming is drag reduction in aeronautics. The most beneficial concept for drag reduction is to maintain the major portion of the airfoil laminar. Estimations show that the potential drag reduction can be as much as 15%, which would give a significant reduction of NOx and CO emissions in the atmosphere considering that the number of aircraft take offs, only in the EU, is over 19 million per year. An important element for successful flow control, which can lead to a reduced aerodynamic drag, is enhanced physical understanding of the transition to turbulence process.
In previous wind tunnel measurements we have shown that roughness elements can be used to sensibly delay transition to turbulence. The result is revolutionary, since the common belief has been that surface roughness causes earlier transition and in turn increases the drag, and is a proof of concept of the passive control method per se. The beauty with a passive control technique is that no external energy has to be added to the flow system in order to perform the control, instead one uses the existing energy in the flow.
In this project proposal, AFRODITE, we will take this passive control method to the next level by making it twofold, more persistent and more robust. Transition prevention is the goal rather than transition delay and the method will be extended to simultaneously control separation, which is another unwanted flow phenomenon especially during airplane take offs. AFRODITE will be a catalyst for innovative research, which will lead to a cleaner sky.
Summary
A hot topic in today's debate on global warming is drag reduction in aeronautics. The most beneficial concept for drag reduction is to maintain the major portion of the airfoil laminar. Estimations show that the potential drag reduction can be as much as 15%, which would give a significant reduction of NOx and CO emissions in the atmosphere considering that the number of aircraft take offs, only in the EU, is over 19 million per year. An important element for successful flow control, which can lead to a reduced aerodynamic drag, is enhanced physical understanding of the transition to turbulence process.
In previous wind tunnel measurements we have shown that roughness elements can be used to sensibly delay transition to turbulence. The result is revolutionary, since the common belief has been that surface roughness causes earlier transition and in turn increases the drag, and is a proof of concept of the passive control method per se. The beauty with a passive control technique is that no external energy has to be added to the flow system in order to perform the control, instead one uses the existing energy in the flow.
In this project proposal, AFRODITE, we will take this passive control method to the next level by making it twofold, more persistent and more robust. Transition prevention is the goal rather than transition delay and the method will be extended to simultaneously control separation, which is another unwanted flow phenomenon especially during airplane take offs. AFRODITE will be a catalyst for innovative research, which will lead to a cleaner sky.
Max ERC Funding
1 418 399 €
Duration
Start date: 2010-11-01, End date: 2015-10-31
Project acronym AGINGSEXDIFF
Project Aging Differently: Understanding Sex Differences in Reproductive, Demographic and Functional Senescence
Researcher (PI) Alexei Maklakov
Host Institution (HI) Uppsala University
Call Details Starting Grant (StG), LS8, ERC-2010-StG_20091118
Summary Sex differences in life span and aging are ubiquitous across the animal kingdom and represent a
long-standing challenge in evolutionary biology. In most species, including humans, sexes differ not
only in how long they live and when they start to senesce, but also in how they react to
environmental interventions aimed at prolonging their life span or decelerating the onset of aging.
Therefore, sex differences in life span and aging have important implications beyond the questions
posed by fundamental science. Both evolutionary reasons and medical implications of sex
differences in demographic, reproductive and physiological senescence are and will be crucial
targets of present and future research in the biology of aging. Here I propose a two-step approach
that can provide a significant breakthrough in our understanding of the biological basis of sex
differences in aging. First, I propose to resolve the age-old conundrum regarding the role of sexspecific
mortality rate in sex differences in aging by developing a series of targeted experimental
evolution studies in a novel model organism – the nematode, Caenorhabditis remanei. Second, I
address the role of intra-locus sexual conflict in the evolution of aging by combining novel
methodology from nutritional ecology – the Geometric Framework – with artificial selection
approach using the cricket Teleogryllus commodus and the fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster. I will
directly test the hypothesis that intra-locus sexual conflict mediates aging by restricting the
adaptive evolution of diet choice. By combining techniques from evolutionary biology and
nutritional ecology, this proposal will raise EU’s profile in integrative research, and contribute to
the training of young scientists in this rapidly developing field.
Summary
Sex differences in life span and aging are ubiquitous across the animal kingdom and represent a
long-standing challenge in evolutionary biology. In most species, including humans, sexes differ not
only in how long they live and when they start to senesce, but also in how they react to
environmental interventions aimed at prolonging their life span or decelerating the onset of aging.
Therefore, sex differences in life span and aging have important implications beyond the questions
posed by fundamental science. Both evolutionary reasons and medical implications of sex
differences in demographic, reproductive and physiological senescence are and will be crucial
targets of present and future research in the biology of aging. Here I propose a two-step approach
that can provide a significant breakthrough in our understanding of the biological basis of sex
differences in aging. First, I propose to resolve the age-old conundrum regarding the role of sexspecific
mortality rate in sex differences in aging by developing a series of targeted experimental
evolution studies in a novel model organism – the nematode, Caenorhabditis remanei. Second, I
address the role of intra-locus sexual conflict in the evolution of aging by combining novel
methodology from nutritional ecology – the Geometric Framework – with artificial selection
approach using the cricket Teleogryllus commodus and the fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster. I will
directly test the hypothesis that intra-locus sexual conflict mediates aging by restricting the
adaptive evolution of diet choice. By combining techniques from evolutionary biology and
nutritional ecology, this proposal will raise EU’s profile in integrative research, and contribute to
the training of young scientists in this rapidly developing field.
Max ERC Funding
1 391 904 €
Duration
Start date: 2010-12-01, End date: 2016-05-31
Project acronym ENDOSWITCH
Project Network Principles of Neuroendocrine Control:
Tuberoinfundibular Dopamine (TIDA) Oscillations and the Regulation of Lactation
Researcher (PI) Carl Christian Broberger
Host Institution (HI) KAROLINSKA INSTITUTET
Call Details Starting Grant (StG), LS5, ERC-2010-StG_20091118
Summary The hypothalamus is essential for our survival and orchestrates every vital function of the body, from defence against predators and energy metabolism to reproduction. Yet, the network mechanisms underlying these actions remain largely hidden in a black box . Here, we will focus on the hypothalamic neuroendocrine system, where we have identified a novel robust network oscillation in the tuberoinfundibular dopamine (TIDA) neurons that control prolactin release. This oscillation is synchronized between neurons via gap junctions, and phasic firing is transformed into tonic discharge by compounds that functionally oppose neuroendocrine dopamine actions. Using this novel preparation, we will investigate the 1) the cellular (conductance) and network (connectivity) mechanisms underlying TIDA rhythmicity; 2) how TIDA activity is affected by hormones and transmitters that affect lactation; 3) the functional significance of phasic vs. tonic discharge in the regulation of dopamine release and lactation; and 4) the generality of TIDA cellular and network properties to other parvocellular neuron populations. These questions will be addressed through several in vitro and in vivo electrophysiological techniques, including slice whole-cell recording, extracellular in vivo recording, voltammetry and optical recording. These experiments will provide novel insight into the link between network interactions and behaviour, and have important clinical implications for e.g. endocrine and reproductive disorders.
Summary
The hypothalamus is essential for our survival and orchestrates every vital function of the body, from defence against predators and energy metabolism to reproduction. Yet, the network mechanisms underlying these actions remain largely hidden in a black box . Here, we will focus on the hypothalamic neuroendocrine system, where we have identified a novel robust network oscillation in the tuberoinfundibular dopamine (TIDA) neurons that control prolactin release. This oscillation is synchronized between neurons via gap junctions, and phasic firing is transformed into tonic discharge by compounds that functionally oppose neuroendocrine dopamine actions. Using this novel preparation, we will investigate the 1) the cellular (conductance) and network (connectivity) mechanisms underlying TIDA rhythmicity; 2) how TIDA activity is affected by hormones and transmitters that affect lactation; 3) the functional significance of phasic vs. tonic discharge in the regulation of dopamine release and lactation; and 4) the generality of TIDA cellular and network properties to other parvocellular neuron populations. These questions will be addressed through several in vitro and in vivo electrophysiological techniques, including slice whole-cell recording, extracellular in vivo recording, voltammetry and optical recording. These experiments will provide novel insight into the link between network interactions and behaviour, and have important clinical implications for e.g. endocrine and reproductive disorders.
Max ERC Funding
1 493 958 €
Duration
Start date: 2011-01-01, End date: 2015-12-31
Project acronym MODULISPACES
Project Topology of moduli spaces of Riemann surfaces
Researcher (PI) Dan PETERSEN
Host Institution (HI) STOCKHOLMS UNIVERSITET
Call Details Starting Grant (StG), PE1, ERC-2017-STG
Summary The proposal describes two main projects. Both of them concern cohomology of moduli spaces of Riemann surfaces, but the aims are rather different.
The first is a natural continuation of my work on tautological rings, which I intend to work on with Qizheng Yin and Mehdi Tavakol. In this project, we will introduce a new perspective on tautological rings, which is that the tautological cohomology of moduli spaces of pointed Riemann surfaces can be described in terms of tautological cohomology of the moduli space M_g, but with twisted coefficients. In the cases we have been able to compute so far, the tautological cohomology with twisted coefficients is always much simpler to understand, even though it “contains the same information”. In particular we hope to be able to find a systematic way of analyzing the consequences of the recent conjecture that Pixton’s relations are all relations between tautological classes; until now, most concrete consequences of Pixton’s conjecture have been found via extensive computer calculations, which are feasible only when the genus and number of markings is small.
The second project has a somewhat different flavor, involving operads and periods of moduli spaces, and builds upon recent work of myself with Johan Alm, who I will continue to collaborate with. This work is strongly informed by Brown’s breakthrough results relating mixed motives over Spec(Z) and multiple zeta values to the periods of moduli spaces of genus zero Riemann surfaces. In brief, Brown introduced a partial compactification of the moduli space M_{0,n} of n-pointed genus zero Riemann surfaces; we have shown that the spaces M_{0,n} and these partial compactifications are connected by a form of dihedral Koszul duality. It seems likely that this Koszul duality should have further ramifications in the study of multiple zeta values and periods of these spaces; optimistically, this could lead to new irrationality results for multiple zeta values.
Summary
The proposal describes two main projects. Both of them concern cohomology of moduli spaces of Riemann surfaces, but the aims are rather different.
The first is a natural continuation of my work on tautological rings, which I intend to work on with Qizheng Yin and Mehdi Tavakol. In this project, we will introduce a new perspective on tautological rings, which is that the tautological cohomology of moduli spaces of pointed Riemann surfaces can be described in terms of tautological cohomology of the moduli space M_g, but with twisted coefficients. In the cases we have been able to compute so far, the tautological cohomology with twisted coefficients is always much simpler to understand, even though it “contains the same information”. In particular we hope to be able to find a systematic way of analyzing the consequences of the recent conjecture that Pixton’s relations are all relations between tautological classes; until now, most concrete consequences of Pixton’s conjecture have been found via extensive computer calculations, which are feasible only when the genus and number of markings is small.
The second project has a somewhat different flavor, involving operads and periods of moduli spaces, and builds upon recent work of myself with Johan Alm, who I will continue to collaborate with. This work is strongly informed by Brown’s breakthrough results relating mixed motives over Spec(Z) and multiple zeta values to the periods of moduli spaces of genus zero Riemann surfaces. In brief, Brown introduced a partial compactification of the moduli space M_{0,n} of n-pointed genus zero Riemann surfaces; we have shown that the spaces M_{0,n} and these partial compactifications are connected by a form of dihedral Koszul duality. It seems likely that this Koszul duality should have further ramifications in the study of multiple zeta values and periods of these spaces; optimistically, this could lead to new irrationality results for multiple zeta values.
Max ERC Funding
1 091 249 €
Duration
Start date: 2018-01-01, End date: 2022-12-31
Project acronym MULTIMATE
Project A Research Platform Addressing Outstanding Research Challenges for Nanoscale Design and Engineering of Multifunctional Material
Researcher (PI) Johanna Rosen
Host Institution (HI) LINKOPINGS UNIVERSITET
Call Details Starting Grant (StG), PE8, ERC-2010-StG_20091028
Summary "Nanoscale engineering is a fascinating research field spawning extraordinary materials which revolutionize microelectronics, medicine,energy production, etc. Still, there is a need for new materials and synthesis methods to offer unprecedented properties for use in future applications.
In this research project, I will conduct fundamental science investigations focused towards the development of novel materials with tailor-made properties, achieved by precise control of the materials structure and compostition. The objectives are to: 1) Perform novel synthesis of graphene. 2) Explore nanoscale engineering of ""graphene-based"" materials, based on more than one atomic element. 3) Tailor uniquely combined metallic/ceramic/magnetic materials properties in so called MAX phases. 4) Provide proof of concept for thin film architectures in advanced applications that require specific mechanical, tribological, electronic, and magnetic properties.
This initative involves advanced materials design by a new and unique synthesis method based on cathodic arc. Research breakthroughs are envisioned: Functionalized graphene-based and fullerene-like compounds are expected to have a major impact on tribology and electronic applications. The MAX phases are expected to be a new candidate for applications within low friction contacts, electronics, as well as spintronics. In particular, single crystal devices are predicted through tuning of tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) and anisotropic conductivity (from insulating to n-and p-type).
I can lead this innovative and interdisciplinary project, with a unique background combining relevant research areas: arc process development, plasma processing, materials synthesis and engineering, characterization, along with theory and modelling."
Summary
"Nanoscale engineering is a fascinating research field spawning extraordinary materials which revolutionize microelectronics, medicine,energy production, etc. Still, there is a need for new materials and synthesis methods to offer unprecedented properties for use in future applications.
In this research project, I will conduct fundamental science investigations focused towards the development of novel materials with tailor-made properties, achieved by precise control of the materials structure and compostition. The objectives are to: 1) Perform novel synthesis of graphene. 2) Explore nanoscale engineering of ""graphene-based"" materials, based on more than one atomic element. 3) Tailor uniquely combined metallic/ceramic/magnetic materials properties in so called MAX phases. 4) Provide proof of concept for thin film architectures in advanced applications that require specific mechanical, tribological, electronic, and magnetic properties.
This initative involves advanced materials design by a new and unique synthesis method based on cathodic arc. Research breakthroughs are envisioned: Functionalized graphene-based and fullerene-like compounds are expected to have a major impact on tribology and electronic applications. The MAX phases are expected to be a new candidate for applications within low friction contacts, electronics, as well as spintronics. In particular, single crystal devices are predicted through tuning of tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) and anisotropic conductivity (from insulating to n-and p-type).
I can lead this innovative and interdisciplinary project, with a unique background combining relevant research areas: arc process development, plasma processing, materials synthesis and engineering, characterization, along with theory and modelling."
Max ERC Funding
1 484 700 €
Duration
Start date: 2010-09-01, End date: 2015-08-31
Project acronym PROMETHEUS
Project Flame nanoengineering for antibacterial medical devices
Researcher (PI) Georgios SOTIRIOU
Host Institution (HI) KAROLINSKA INSTITUTET
Call Details Starting Grant (StG), PE8, ERC-2017-STG
Summary Engineers in nanotechnology research labs have been quite innovative the last decade in designing nanoscale materials for medicine. However, very few of these exciting discoveries are translated to commercial medical products today. The main reasons for this are two inherent limitations of most nanomanufacture processes: scalability and reproducibility. There is too little knowledge on how well the unique properties associated with nanoparticles are maintained during their large-scale production while often poor reproducibility hinders their successful use. A key goal here is to utilize a nanomanufacture process famous for its scalability and reproducibility, flame aerosol reactors that produce at tons/hr commodity powders, and advance the knowledge for synthesis of complex nanoparticles and their direct integration in medical devices. Our aim is to develop the next generation of antibacterial medical devices to fight antimicrobial resistance, a highly understudied field. Antimicrobial resistance constitutes the most serious public health threat today with estimations to become the leading cause of human deaths in 30 years.
We focus on flame direct nanoparticle deposition on substrates combining nanoparticle production and functional layer deposition in a single-step with close attention to product nanoparticle properties and device assembly, extending beyond the simple commodity powders of the past. Specific targets here are two devices; a) hybrid drug microneedle patch with photothermal nanoparticles to fight life-threatening skin infections from drug-resistant bacteria and b) smart nanocoatings on implants providing both osteogenic and self-triggered antibacterial properties. The engineering approach for the development of antibacterial devices will provide insight into the basic physicochemical principles to assist in commercialization while the outcome of this research will help the fight against antibiotic resistance improving the public health worldwide.
Summary
Engineers in nanotechnology research labs have been quite innovative the last decade in designing nanoscale materials for medicine. However, very few of these exciting discoveries are translated to commercial medical products today. The main reasons for this are two inherent limitations of most nanomanufacture processes: scalability and reproducibility. There is too little knowledge on how well the unique properties associated with nanoparticles are maintained during their large-scale production while often poor reproducibility hinders their successful use. A key goal here is to utilize a nanomanufacture process famous for its scalability and reproducibility, flame aerosol reactors that produce at tons/hr commodity powders, and advance the knowledge for synthesis of complex nanoparticles and their direct integration in medical devices. Our aim is to develop the next generation of antibacterial medical devices to fight antimicrobial resistance, a highly understudied field. Antimicrobial resistance constitutes the most serious public health threat today with estimations to become the leading cause of human deaths in 30 years.
We focus on flame direct nanoparticle deposition on substrates combining nanoparticle production and functional layer deposition in a single-step with close attention to product nanoparticle properties and device assembly, extending beyond the simple commodity powders of the past. Specific targets here are two devices; a) hybrid drug microneedle patch with photothermal nanoparticles to fight life-threatening skin infections from drug-resistant bacteria and b) smart nanocoatings on implants providing both osteogenic and self-triggered antibacterial properties. The engineering approach for the development of antibacterial devices will provide insight into the basic physicochemical principles to assist in commercialization while the outcome of this research will help the fight against antibiotic resistance improving the public health worldwide.
Max ERC Funding
1 812 500 €
Duration
Start date: 2018-03-01, End date: 2023-02-28
Project acronym SuperGenE
Project Supergene evolution in a classic plant system - bringing the study of distyly into the genomic era
Researcher (PI) Tanja SLOTTE
Host Institution (HI) STOCKHOLMS UNIVERSITET
Call Details Starting Grant (StG), LS8, ERC-2017-STG
Summary Understanding how adaptive combinations of traits are maintained is a central question in evolutionary biology. Supergenes are clusters of genes that can maintain favorable trait combinations because they are inherited as a unit. Studying supergenes allows us to address fundamental questions on the origin and evolution of complex adaptations and the effects of suppressed recombination, and is therefore of broad significance.
Distylous plants offer a particularly promising opportunity to study supergene evolution. In distylous plants there are two floral morphs that differ reciprocally in the placement of stigma and anthers. These character combinations are maintained by a supergene, the distyly S-locus. While distyly has interested many generations of biologists, we still know little about the origin and evolution of this supergene, and progress on this front has been hampered by the lack of molecular genetic data on the S-locus.
Here, we aim to make full use of the latest advances in genome sequencing technology to bring the study of distyly into the genomic era. Specifically, we will develop the classic Linum genus as a model for supergene evolution. We will first combine de novo assembly of the genomes of six Linum species with genetic studies to identify S-linked regions. Then, we will test whether the S-locus exhibits similarities to sex chromosomes with respect to recombination suppression, genetic degeneration and gene expression evolution. Finally, we will investigate the genetic causes and population genetic consequences of recurrent loss of distyly in Linum.
The high-quality genome assemblies produced during this project will pave the way for future studies of the molecular basis of adaptive floral differences first identified by Darwin. The results from this project are of great general importance for our understanding of the evolution of coadapted gene complexes and will shed new light on the important and fascinating phenomenon of supergenes.
Summary
Understanding how adaptive combinations of traits are maintained is a central question in evolutionary biology. Supergenes are clusters of genes that can maintain favorable trait combinations because they are inherited as a unit. Studying supergenes allows us to address fundamental questions on the origin and evolution of complex adaptations and the effects of suppressed recombination, and is therefore of broad significance.
Distylous plants offer a particularly promising opportunity to study supergene evolution. In distylous plants there are two floral morphs that differ reciprocally in the placement of stigma and anthers. These character combinations are maintained by a supergene, the distyly S-locus. While distyly has interested many generations of biologists, we still know little about the origin and evolution of this supergene, and progress on this front has been hampered by the lack of molecular genetic data on the S-locus.
Here, we aim to make full use of the latest advances in genome sequencing technology to bring the study of distyly into the genomic era. Specifically, we will develop the classic Linum genus as a model for supergene evolution. We will first combine de novo assembly of the genomes of six Linum species with genetic studies to identify S-linked regions. Then, we will test whether the S-locus exhibits similarities to sex chromosomes with respect to recombination suppression, genetic degeneration and gene expression evolution. Finally, we will investigate the genetic causes and population genetic consequences of recurrent loss of distyly in Linum.
The high-quality genome assemblies produced during this project will pave the way for future studies of the molecular basis of adaptive floral differences first identified by Darwin. The results from this project are of great general importance for our understanding of the evolution of coadapted gene complexes and will shed new light on the important and fascinating phenomenon of supergenes.
Max ERC Funding
1 475 636 €
Duration
Start date: 2018-01-01, End date: 2022-12-31
Project acronym UNICON
Project New Adaptive Computational Methods for Fluid-Structure Interaction using an Unified Continuum Formulation with Applications in Biology, Medicine and Industry
Researcher (PI) Johan Hoffman
Host Institution (HI) KUNGLIGA TEKNISKA HOEGSKOLAN
Call Details Starting Grant (StG), PE1, ERC-2007-StG
Summary For many problems involving a fluid and a structure, decoupling of the two is not possible to accurately model the phenomenon at hand, instead the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) problem has to be solved as a coupled problem. This includes a multitude of important problems in biology, medicine and industry, such as the modeling of insect flight, the blood flow in our heart and arteries, human speech, acoustic noise generation in vehicles and wind induced vibrations in bridges and other structures. Major open challenges of computational FSI include; (i) robustness of the fluid-structure coupling, (ii) efficiency and reliability of the computations in the form of adaptivity and quantitative error estimates, and (iii) in the case of high Reynolds number flow the computation of turbulent flow. In this project we address (i)-(iii) by a novel approach which we refer to as a Unified continuum formulation (UCF), where we formulate the fundamental conservation laws for mass, momentum and energy for the combined FSI domain, which is treated as one single continuum, with the only difference being the constitutive relations for the fluid and the structure. The stability problems connected to FSI are related to the exchange of information (stresses and displacements) over the fluid-structure interface, but with UCF we achieve (i) by the global coupling of the conservation laws where the fluid-structure interface is just an interior surface. We achieve (ii)-(iii) by extending to FSI our technology for adaptive finite element methods for turbulent flow with a posteriori error estimation using duality. We typically discretize the equations using a Lagrangian coordinate system for the structure and Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) coordinates for the fluid. Preliminary results for the simulation of blood flow are very promising. The computational algorithms are implemented in the open source software FEniCS (www.fenics.org), of which our group is one of the main developers.
Summary
For many problems involving a fluid and a structure, decoupling of the two is not possible to accurately model the phenomenon at hand, instead the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) problem has to be solved as a coupled problem. This includes a multitude of important problems in biology, medicine and industry, such as the modeling of insect flight, the blood flow in our heart and arteries, human speech, acoustic noise generation in vehicles and wind induced vibrations in bridges and other structures. Major open challenges of computational FSI include; (i) robustness of the fluid-structure coupling, (ii) efficiency and reliability of the computations in the form of adaptivity and quantitative error estimates, and (iii) in the case of high Reynolds number flow the computation of turbulent flow. In this project we address (i)-(iii) by a novel approach which we refer to as a Unified continuum formulation (UCF), where we formulate the fundamental conservation laws for mass, momentum and energy for the combined FSI domain, which is treated as one single continuum, with the only difference being the constitutive relations for the fluid and the structure. The stability problems connected to FSI are related to the exchange of information (stresses and displacements) over the fluid-structure interface, but with UCF we achieve (i) by the global coupling of the conservation laws where the fluid-structure interface is just an interior surface. We achieve (ii)-(iii) by extending to FSI our technology for adaptive finite element methods for turbulent flow with a posteriori error estimation using duality. We typically discretize the equations using a Lagrangian coordinate system for the structure and Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) coordinates for the fluid. Preliminary results for the simulation of blood flow are very promising. The computational algorithms are implemented in the open source software FEniCS (www.fenics.org), of which our group is one of the main developers.
Max ERC Funding
500 000 €
Duration
Start date: 2008-06-01, End date: 2013-05-31
