Creating new materials to improve imaging of biological structures
Official title: Developing graphene grids to overcome air-water-interface issues
Funded at Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-10870706 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new materials to help scientists take better pictures of tiny biological samples, which could lead to improved understanding of diseases and better treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $276,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21GM154216-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10870706 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve complex biological structures, where precise imaging is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions that do not require advanced imaging techniques or those who are not affected by structural biological issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing graphene grids to address challenges faced during the imaging of biological specimens using single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM). The study aims to enhance the structural integrity of samples that are typically damaged by exposure to air-water interfaces during preparation. By utilizing innovative materials, the research seeks to improve the quality of imaging, which can lead to better understanding of cellular functions and disease mechanisms. Patients may benefit from advancements in imaging techniques that could lead to more accurate diagnoses and treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the accuracy of imaging biological structures, leading to better understanding and treatment of diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that innovative materials can enhance imaging techniques, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Scripps Research Institute, the
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lander, Gabriel C — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: Lander, Gabriel C
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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.