Creating artificial nucleic acid ligands to study how cells interact
Discovery and development of artificial nucleic acid ligands to probe cellular interactions
This study is exploring new ways to create special molecules that can help us understand how cells talk to each other and interact, which could lead to better treatments for patients by improving our knowledge of these processes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | City College of New York NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10992126 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing synthetic nucleic acid ligands, known as aptamers, to investigate cellular interactions, such as how cells communicate and how receptors on their surfaces interact. By using a novel technology called Ligand-guided Selection (LIGS), the researchers aim to identify aptamers that can effectively bind to specific cell surface receptors in their natural state. This approach addresses challenges related to the solubility of these receptors and the formation of transient complexes, which are crucial for understanding cellular decision-making processes. Patients may benefit from insights gained through this research that could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting cellular communication.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to cellular signaling and receptor interactions, such as cancer or autoimmune diseases.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to cellular interactions or those who do not have access to advanced therapeutic options may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for targeting and treating diseases by enhancing our understanding of cellular communication.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using aptamers for targeting cellular interactions, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- City College of New York — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mallikaratchy, Prabodhika — City College of New York
- Study coordinator: Mallikaratchy, Prabodhika
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.