Advanced Technology to Understand Proteins Linked to Alzheimer's Disease
High Field DNP and EPR in Biological Systems
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · NIH-11145143
This work develops a powerful new technology to look closely at the tiny structures of proteins involved in diseases like Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11145143 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our team is building and refining a highly sensitive technology called Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (DNP) combined with Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) to get a clearer picture of complex biological molecules. We are specifically using this advanced tool to study amyloid proteins, which are known to play a role in Alzheimer's disease. By understanding the precise shapes and structures of these proteins, especially those with genetic mutations linked to early-onset Alzheimer's, we hope to uncover how they contribute to the disease. This detailed structural information is crucial for developing new ways to target and treat these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation but aims to benefit individuals affected by diseases linked to amyloid proteins, such as Alzheimer's.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic science and technology development project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this technology could provide fundamental insights into disease-causing proteins, paving the way for new drug discoveries and treatments for conditions like Alzheimer's.
How similar studies have performed: This project focuses on developing novel high-field DNP/NMR methodology, which is a cutting-edge approach to enhance sensitivity in structural biology experiments.
Where this research is happening
CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY — CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GRIFFIN, ROBERT GUY — MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- Study coordinator: GRIFFIN, ROBERT GUY
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 below.