Creating synthetic collagen-like peptides to study protein interactions

Peptide Mimics of the Collagen Triple Helix

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11042750

This study is exploring new synthetic proteins that act like collagen to see how they can help improve cell growth and health, which could lead to better treatments for people with collagen-related issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11042750 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing synthetic peptides that mimic the structure of collagen, a crucial protein in the body. By modifying the amino acids in these peptides, the researchers aim to enhance their stability and ability to interact with other proteins. The project involves synthesizing these peptides using advanced techniques and characterizing their properties to understand how they can influence biological processes such as cell growth and apoptosis. Patients may benefit from insights gained about collagen interactions, which could lead to new treatments for conditions related to collagen dysfunction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to collagen abnormalities or those at risk for diseases influenced by collagen interactions.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to collagen or those who do not have any known collagen-related disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases involving collagen, such as certain cancers and connective tissue disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using peptide mimics to study protein interactions, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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 2026-06-13 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.