Creating new protein structures that use metals for biological functions

Design and Evolution of Metal-Based Functions in Supramolecular Protein Scaffolds

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10979074

This study is exploring how special proteins that contain metal help our bodies work, and it's for anyone interested in how these proteins could improve our health and treat diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10979074 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how metalloproteins, which are proteins that contain metal ions, function in biological processes. By designing and constructing new protein scaffolds with metal-based functions, the researchers aim to uncover the relationship between protein structure and metal reactivity. They employ advanced techniques like Metal-Centered Protein Assembly and Machine-Learning-guided Design to create these novel proteins with precise metal active sites. This work could lead to breakthroughs in how we understand and utilize metalloproteins in health and disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with conditions related to metalloprotein dysfunction or those interested in cutting-edge therapeutic approaches.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to metalloproteins or those who do not have a need for novel protein-based therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments or therapies that harness the unique properties of metalloproteins for various health conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in the design of metalloproteins, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in the field.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.