Developing a new method to prepare biological samples for advanced imaging techniques

Microfluidic Preparation of Specimens to Enable Submillisecond Time-Resolved Cryo-EM

['FUNDING_R01'] · COLUMBIA UNIV NEW YORK MORNINGSIDE · NIH-10932924

This study is working on a new way to prepare tiny biological samples for a special imaging technique that helps scientists see how molecules behave in real-time, which could lead to better understanding and treatments for diseases related to ion channels and receptors.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCOLUMBIA UNIV NEW YORK MORNINGSIDE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10932924 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the preparation of biological specimens for cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), a technique that allows scientists to visualize biological molecules in their natural state. By creating a microfluidic system, researchers aim to capture rapid biochemical reactions that occur in milliseconds, which are crucial for understanding various diseases. The new system will enhance the quality and consistency of samples, enabling more precise studies of important cellular processes and interactions. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the mechanisms of diseases linked to ion channels and receptors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions linked to ion channel dysfunction or receptor abnormalities.

Not a fit: Patients with diseases unrelated to ion channels or receptors may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating diseases related to ion channels and receptors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research in cryo-EM has shown significant success, particularly in studying bacterial translation systems, indicating a promising potential for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.