Developing new chemical tools to target proteins for removal
Chemical glycobiology tool development: Proximity-based modalities
This work creates new chemical tools that can help remove unwanted proteins from the body, which could lead to new treatments for various diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11048172 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our team is developing innovative chemical tools that bring specific molecules close together to trigger their removal from the body. This approach, called proximity-based technology, is already used in some research and drug development to target proteins inside cells. We are expanding this idea to target proteins found outside cells or on their surface, which are involved in many diseases. By linking a targeting molecule, like an antibody, to a sugar-based signal, we can guide unwanted proteins to be broken down by the body's natural processes. This could open new avenues for treating conditions where specific proteins cause harm.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients, but future clinical applications may benefit individuals with diseases caused by problematic extracellular or cell-surface proteins.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct participation in a clinical trial would not find direct benefit from this early-stage tool development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to entirely new types of medicines that precisely remove disease-causing proteins, offering new treatment options for conditions like autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Similar proximity-based approaches have shown success in targeting intracellular proteins, and this work extends that concept to extracellular proteins, representing a novel direction.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bertozzi, Carolyn — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Bertozzi, Carolyn
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 below.