Developing flexible molecules that can target multiple proteins for drug therapy

Shapeshifting Cyclic Peptides as Single Molecule Polypharmacological Drugs

NIH-funded research University of Colorado · NIH-10864699

This study is looking at new types of tiny proteins that can change shape in your body to better target and treat diseases, with the hope of finding more effective options for conditions that don’t have many good treatments right now.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10864699 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a new class of cyclic peptides that can change shape at body temperature, allowing them to interact with various proteins in the human body. By exploring a vast range of potential drug-like molecules, the researchers aim to develop treatments that can target diseases more effectively than current drugs. The approach involves synthesizing unique amino acids that can be integrated into existing drug development methods, potentially leading to breakthroughs in treating conditions that have limited therapeutic options.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that are currently difficult to treat due to the limitations of existing drugs.

Not a fit: Patients with well-managed conditions that already have effective treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective drugs that can target multiple disease pathways simultaneously.

How similar studies have performed: While the concept of shape-shifting molecules is innovative, similar approaches in drug development have shown promise in targeting multiple pathways, suggesting potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Boulder, 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 2026-06-09 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.