Detecting small molecules in cells using metal-based sensors
Official title: Organometallic Sensors for Cellular Small Molecule Detection
Funded at University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) · NIH-10886037 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new sensors that can help detect tiny molecules in the body, like ethylene, which can indicate stress and may be linked to diseases such as cancer and heart problems, with the goal of improving how we monitor and understand these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Denver, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $367,774 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150937-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10886037 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions linked to oxidative stress, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, or neurodegenerative disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without conditions related to oxidative stress or those not producing the relevant biomarkers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative sensors that utilize transition metal catalysts to detect small biologically relevant molecules, particularly ethylene, which is produced in the body during oxidative stress. The approach involves creating fluorescent probes that can identify these molecules in biological systems, potentially leading to better understanding and monitoring of various diseases. By adapting known catalysts for use in living organisms, the research aims to improve detection methods for biomarkers associated with conditions like cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Patients may benefit from advancements in diagnostic techniques that arise from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools for detecting diseases associated with oxidative stress.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using metal-based sensors for biological detection, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Denver (Colorado Seminary)
Denver, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Michel, Brian — University of Denver (Colorado Seminary)
- Study coordinator: Michel, Brian
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Synthetic protein mimetics to treat Lewy Body Dementia
A new therapeutic approach using engineered protein-like molecules to block the harmful protein clumps that cause Lewy Body Dementia.
-
Group-based postpartum depression prevention: in-person vs. virtual delivery
A large study is testing whether the ROSE group program delivered virtually to pregnant people is just as helpful as the in-person version in preventing postpartum depression.
-
Understanding how soft tissue defects fail and rupture
A research project aims to uncover why soft tissue defects rupture by looking at the tiny, local changes in tissue mechanics and biology in models like the mouse carotid artery and stomach.
-
Personalized interpretation bias treatment for anxious kids
A new, child-friendly cognitive tool helps kids with anxiety learn to interpret ambiguity in a less threatening way to reduce worry.
-
Synthetic protein mimetics as potential therapies for Lewy Body Dementia
A new approach uses synthetic protein mimetics to interfere with harmful protein clumps in Lewy Body Dementia to slow or stop disease progression.
-
Lysosome remodeling in cells under stress, from yeast to human health
This grant explores how lysosome membranes change when cells are stressed, with potential implications for diseases like cancer and neurodegeneration.
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.