Controlling proteins in cells using a small molecule approach
Official title: Regulation of eDHFR-tagged proteins with trimethoprim PROTACs
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10916289 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to control a specific protein in cells and animals using a special version of an antibiotic, which could help scientists better understand how proteins work and improve cancer treatments like CAR T-cell therapy by allowing them to see and manage protein activity in real time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $594,898 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM150804-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10916289 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing treatment for solid tumors who may benefit from advanced CAR T-cell therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to solid tumors or those not eligible for CAR T-cell therapies may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a method to control the expression of a specific protein tag in cells and animals using small molecules. By utilizing a modified version of the antibiotic trimethoprim, researchers aim to create a system that allows for real-time imaging and regulation of proteins involved in critical biological processes. This approach could enhance our understanding of protein functions and improve therapies, such as CAR T-cell treatments for cancer, by allowing precise control over protein behavior in living organisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer cancer therapies by improving the targeting and regulation of therapeutic proteins.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using small molecules for protein regulation, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in therapeutic applications.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sellmyer, Mark a — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Sellmyer, Mark a
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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.