The ability of electronic devices to act as switches makes digital information processing possible. The current silicon-based semiconductor processors are fabricated according to a top-down principle. However, the need to scale down in the size of such electronic devices has prompted the search for molecule-based information processing components (Molecular Electronics), such as switching memories, sensors and logic gates. Concretely, within the past two decades, developments in Nanotechnology have shown the capabilities of molecules to perform some of the computational logic functions - relating to the concept of logical zeros (0) and ones (1) binary code - achieved in mainstream semiconductor technology. Molecular logic gates differ from the currently used semiconductor elements by small size, multifunctional nature and variability of input and output signals. Nonetheless, the transition of logic elements from mostly optical means for reading output signals to electronic transduction tools would be beneficial for developing many novel logic elements for information processing, (bio)sensing and actuation. Accordingly, the design, construction and miniaturization of molecular electronic systems capable of performing complex logic functions is a current challenge. Herein, 3D printing technology is presented as a promising tool to open up new horizons in the field of electronic devices in general, and molecular logic gates in particular. For this goal, a sustainable bottom-up approach has been devised for the development of the next generation of “intelligent” 3D-printed electronic devices - 3D-printed responsive interfaces -, where bistable (supra)molecular switches will be electrically read out on carbon-based 3D-printed conductive substrates as the proof. Accordingly, R3DINBOW is in strong agreement with the EU’s digital strategy, while helping to achieve its target of a climate-neutral Europe by 2050 and responding to the current needs of our Society.

"Similarly to the previous years, the academic year 2016/2017 has seen the Erasmus+ Programme and, most notably, its Key Action 1 as a cornerstone of the internationalization strategy of the Brno University of Technology. Once again, all four standard activites, i.e. study periods, traineeships, teaching assignments and staff trainings have been performed. The availability of funding of the individual mobility has, once again, helped Erasmus+ to be ahead of other programmes and mobility frameworks. Nonetheless, there is a noticeable loss of momentum, despite the growing financial support. It may have been caused by the unfavourable population situation in the Czech republic, or the extent of bureaucracy involved in the Programme administration - BUT feels the necessity as the mid-term of the programme period has now come, to reflect the hitherto practices and consider measures to ""make Erasmus great again"". The 30th anniversary of the Programme celebrated this year and the upcoming 20th anniversary of Erasmus in the Czech Republic should be a unique opportunity. Nevertheless, although we have experience decrease in numbers of student mobilities, we have managed to make up the difference by increasing mobilities of staff members. For the specific numbers, see below."

A tumour cell uses both genetic and protein weapons in its development. Gaining a greater understanding of these lethal mechanisms is a key step towards developing novel and more effective treatments. Because the metal ion metabolism of a tumour cell is not fully understood, we will address the challenge of explaining the mechanisms of how a tumour cell copes both with essential metal ions and platinum based drugs. The metal-based mechanisms help a tumour to grow on one side and to protect itself against commonly used metal-based drugs. On the other side, the exact description of these mechanisms, which are being associated with multi-drug resistance occurrence and failure of a treatment, still remains unclear. We will reveal the mechanism of the as yet not understood biochemical and molecularly-biological relationships and correlations between metal ions and proteins in a tumour development revealing the way how to suppress the growth and development of a tumour and to markedly enhance the effectiveness of a treatment. To achieve this goal, we will focus on metallothionein and its interactions with essential metals and metal-containing anticancer drugs (cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin). Their actions will be monitored both in vitro and in vivo. For this purpose, we will optimize electrochemical, mass spectrometric and immune-based methods. Based on processing of data obtained, new carcinogenetic pathways will be sought on cell level and proved by genetic modifications of target genes. The discovered processes and the pathways found will then be tested on two animal experimental models mice bearing breast tumours (MCF-7 and 4T1) and MeLiM minipigs bearing melanomas. The precise description of the tumour related pathways coping with metal ions based on metallothioneins will direct new highly effective treatment strategies. Moreover, the discovery of new carcinogenetic pathways will open a window for understanding of cancer formation and development.

This action supports physical and blended mobility of higher education students and staff from EU Member States and third countries associated to Erasmus+ to any country in the world. Students in all study fields and cycles can take part in a study period or traineeship abroad. Higher education teaching and administrative staff can take part in professional development activities abroad, as well as staff from the field of work in order to teach and train students or staff at higher education institutions.