Decoding human genes by mapping proteins in model organisms
Proteomics and model organism humanization to decode human genetics
This project uses detailed protein mapping and 'humanized' model organisms to clarify how genetic changes cause diseases like ALS and certain cancers, with the goal of guiding future tests and treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11291821 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team measures thousands of human proteins and how they assemble into molecular machines using advanced proteomics. They introduce human genes into simpler model organisms to watch how these proteins interact and function in living cells. The focus is on deeply conserved proteins that are often linked to diseases such as ALS and cancer. Large-scale protein data will be combined with genetic information to connect specific gene changes to cellular problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with inherited or strongly genetic forms of ALS, hereditary cancer syndromes, or unexplained genetic conditions would be most connected to this work and to potential future sample-donation or follow-up studies.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate treatments or those whose conditions are not driven by genetic or protein-network defects are unlikely to see direct short-term benefits.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new disease mechanisms and point to targets for diagnostics or therapies in ALS, cancer, and other genetic disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Proteomics and humanized model-organism approaches have previously helped reveal gene functions, but applying them at this large scale across thousands of conserved human proteins is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marcotte, Edward M — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Marcotte, Edward M
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.