Exploring how the environment affects membrane proteins
Official title: Understanding how membrane composition directs membrane protein structure and function
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11116899 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the makeup of cell membranes affects the proteins that help our cells work properly, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how these proteins function and interact with their surroundings.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $2,100,553 |
| NIH project number | 5RM1GM149406-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11116899 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to membrane protein dysfunction, such as certain genetic disorders or diseases affecting cellular signaling.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to membrane protein function or those not affected by cellular signaling pathways may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the composition of cell membranes influences the structure and function of membrane proteins, which are crucial for various biological processes. The team aims to develop new technologies to analyze the lipid and protein components of these membranes and understand their roles in protein function and regulation. By utilizing advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy and mass spectrometry, the researchers will explore the interactions between membrane proteins and their environments, which could lead to significant insights in cell biology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of membrane proteins, potentially leading to new therapeutic targets for various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding membrane proteins through similar biochemical and structural biology approaches, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ferguson, Kathryn M — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Ferguson, Kathryn M
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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.