Creating synthetic antibodies to block protein interactions
Official title: Multivalent protein-DNA nanostructures as synthetic blocking antibodies
Funded at Arizona State University-Tempe Campus · NIH-10877672 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on creating tiny synthetic antibodies that can stop certain proteins from interacting with each other, which is important for many biological processes, and it's aimed at helping researchers find better ways to target specific proteins in the body.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Arizona State University-Tempe Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tempe, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $290,947 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM145916-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10877672 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals affected by diseases that involve problematic protein-protein interactions, such as COVID-19.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to protein interactions or those not affected by COVID-19 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative nanoscale synthetic antibodies, known as nano-synbodies, that can effectively block protein-protein interactions, which are crucial in many biological processes. By utilizing a combination of DNA nanostructures and peptide/protein ligands, the project aims to create tailored solutions that can bind to specific surfaces of target proteins, preventing their interactions. The approach involves advanced computational simulations to design and optimize these nano-synbodies before experimental testing, ensuring high specificity and effectiveness in blocking unwanted protein interactions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options for diseases where protein interactions play a critical role, including COVID-19.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using synthetic antibodies is innovative, similar strategies in blocking protein interactions have shown promise in other research, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
Tempe, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stephanopoulos, Nicholas — Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
- Study coordinator: Stephanopoulos, Nicholas
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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.