Exploring how heme enzymes work and their role in diseases
Official title: Mechanistic Investigation into Nitric Oxide Interconversion Pathways of Heme Enzymes using Synthetic Mimics
Funded at University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa · NIH-11112518 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain important enzymes in our body work, using special compounds to mimic them, and the goal is to find new treatment options for conditions like autoimmune diseases and cancer that could help patients feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tuscaloosa, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $363,934 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM154981-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11112518 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from autoimmune diseases or cancers where heme enzymes are implicated.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to heme enzyme activity may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms of heme enzymes, which are crucial for various biological reactions in the body. By using synthetic mimic compounds, the study aims to understand how these enzymes function, particularly focusing on mid-valent heme species that are often overlooked. The findings could lead to the development of targeted therapies for conditions like autoimmune diseases and cancer, where these enzymes play a significant role. Patients may benefit from new treatment options that arise from a better understanding of these enzymes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies for autoimmune diseases and cancer by targeting heme enzymes more effectively.
How similar studies have gone: While the study of heme enzymes is well-established, the specific focus on mid-valent heme species is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior research.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa
Tuscaloosa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wijeratne, Gayan B — University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa
- Study coordinator: Wijeratne, Gayan B
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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.