Exploring how new chemical probes can help understand protein structures in cells.
NEW CHEMICAL PROBES ENABLE MASS SPECTROMETRY-BASED FOOTPRINTING OF HUMAN PROTEIN STRUCTURE IN LIPID MEMBRANES AND CELLS
This study is exploring new ways to look at important proteins in our cells that help with many body functions and are key targets for medications, especially for cancer, to better understand how they work and interact with drugs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11034106 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on using advanced mass spectrometry techniques to investigate membrane proteins, which are crucial for many bodily functions and are significant drug targets. By developing new chemical probes, the project aims to gather detailed structural information about these proteins in their natural environments, such as within lipid membranes and living cells. This approach seeks to overcome limitations of traditional methods, allowing for better understanding of how proteins interact with drugs and regulate cellular processes. Patients may benefit from insights gained about drug interactions, particularly in relation to cancer treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with cancer, particularly those whose treatment involves drugs targeting membrane proteins.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to cancer or those not affected by membrane protein interactions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer therapies by providing deeper insights into how drugs interact with key proteins.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using mass spectrometry for studying protein structures, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Weikai — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Li, Weikai
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.