NIH-funded research R01 grant

Developing advanced technology for precise analysis of proteins in individual cells

Official title: Targeted proteomics technology for accurate quantitative single-cell proteomics

Funded at Battelle Pacific Northwest Laboratories · NIH-10911925 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working on a new way to look at proteins in tiny samples, like just a few cancer cells, to help us better understand how cancer and other diseases work, making it easier for doctors to find the right treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBattelle Pacific Northwest Laboratories
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Richland, United States)
Project startSeptember 23, 2021
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$391,207
NIH project number5R01GM139858-04
Project IDNIH-10911925 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients with tumors that provide limited cellular material for analysis, such as those with rare or small tumors.

Less likely to help

Patients with abundant tumor samples or those whose conditions do not involve cellular analysis at the single-cell level may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the analysis of proteins at the single-cell level, which is essential for understanding cancer biology and other diseases. It aims to overcome current limitations in single-cell proteomics by developing a mass spectrometry-based system that allows for accurate quantification of proteins from very small samples, such as fewer than ten tumor cells. The approach involves addressing challenges related to processing single cells, enhancing sensitivity, and establishing reliable internal standards for measurement. By utilizing advanced technology, this research seeks to provide a more comprehensive view of cellular functions and disease mechanisms.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnostics and targeted therapies for cancer and other diseases by enabling detailed analysis of individual cells.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using mass spectrometry for proteomics, but this specific approach to single-cell analysis is relatively novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

  • Battelle Pacific Northwest Laboratories
    Richland, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Shi, Tujin — Battelle Pacific Northwest Laboratories
  • Study coordinator: Shi, Tujin

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.