Advanced technology for analyzing complex biological structures
Official title: Ultrafast Magic-Angle Spinning Probe for 1H Detection Solid-State NMR to Advance Structural Analysis of Macromolecular Assemblies
Funded at Michigan State University · NIH-11100801 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new tool to help scientists better understand complex molecules, especially those made of sugars, by making it easier and quicker to analyze small samples, which will help researchers at Michigan State University and beyond.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2025 |
| Project end | April 14, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $378,171 |
| NIH project number | 1S10OD038174-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11100801 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with conditions related to carbohydrate-based biomaterials or those affected by antimicrobial resistance.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to the structural analysis of biological materials or those not involved in the specific research focus may not receive direct benefits.
What this research studies
This research focuses on acquiring a state-of-the-art ultrafast magic-angle spinning probe to enhance the capabilities of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. By improving the resolution and sensitivity of 1H detection, the research aims to facilitate the structural analysis of macromolecular assemblies, particularly carbohydrate-based biopolymers and biomaterials. The upgraded technology will allow for faster and more efficient experiments, even with limited sample quantities, benefiting multiple research teams at Michigan State University and collaborating institutions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to significant advancements in understanding the structure of complex biological materials, potentially aiding in the development of new therapies and vaccines.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success with advanced NMR techniques in structural biology, indicating a promising potential for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Michigan State University
East Lansing, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Tuo — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Wang, Tuo
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Understanding how octopuses integrate sensory information and make decisions
This study is exploring how octopuses use their arms to grip things by looking closely at their nervous system and movements, which could help us understand their amazing abilities better.
-
Stabilizing the tear film to relieve evaporative dry eye
This project tests new ways to stabilize the tear film in people with evaporative dry eye, with the goal of longer-lasting comfort.
-
Cell-type specific brain stimulation: new methods to map and predict ICMS effects
A study using targeted brain stimulation and advanced gene mapping to understand how different brain cell types respond to electrical stimulation and how this affects behavior.
-
Expanded program to monitor work injuries and illnesses in Michigan
A nationwide-style occupational health surveillance program will be continued and expanded in Michigan to track injuries, illnesses, and related hazards among workers.
-
Identifying protective antibody responses to malaria in children
Young children in Africa may develop antibodies that protect against malaria; this project maps which antibody features help prevent severe disease.
-
Understanding how viral fusion proteins cause membranes to fuse
Scientists are studying how the envelope proteins of AIDS-causing viruses help them fuse with human cells, with the aim of guiding new antiviral strategies.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.