Developing new agents that bind proteins using covalent aptamers

Protein Labeling and Crosslinking by Covalent Aptamers

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11015049

This study is exploring a new kind of molecule that can stick to specific proteins really well, which could help create better treatments and tests for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11015049 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a new type of oligonucleotide called covalent aptamers, which are designed to bind to specific protein targets with high affinity and stability. By using a method called SELEX, researchers will engineer these aptamers to form covalent bonds with proteins, enhancing their effectiveness in various applications such as therapeutics and diagnostics. The study aims to overcome existing limitations of traditional aptamers, potentially leading to improved drug delivery and imaging techniques. Patients may benefit from advancements in treatments that utilize these innovative agents.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with conditions that could benefit from improved therapeutic agents, particularly those involving protein interactions.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have conditions related to protein interactions or who are not eligible for novel therapeutic approaches may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and stable treatments for various diseases by utilizing covalent aptamers.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using aptamers for therapeutic applications, but the specific approach of covalent aptamers is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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.