Exploring new fluorescent sensors to understand cell membrane dynamics
Official title: Synthesis and Exploration of Highly Fluorescent Thiazolothiazole Molecular Sensors for Probing Membrane Potential Dynamics
Funded at University of North Carolina Charlotte · NIH-11043768 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on creating special dyes that can help scientists see how electric signals change in cells, which could lead to a better understanding of how our bodies work, especially in thick tissues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Carolina Charlotte NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlotte, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2020 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $476,534 |
| NIH project number | 2R15GM140392-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11043768 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that affect cellular physiology, such as neurological disorders or cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-progressive conditions that do not involve cellular membrane dynamics may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced fluorescent thiazolothiazole molecular sensors that can detect changes in electric fields within cellular membranes. By tracking these changes, the research aims to provide insights into the complex physiology of cells. The project involves creating new dyes that are more effective for imaging in thick tissues, have better stability for long-term use, and are more sensitive to voltage changes across cell membranes. The researchers will use various techniques to characterize these sensors and understand how their structure affects their performance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved imaging techniques that enhance our understanding of cellular functions and diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using fluorescent dyes for cellular imaging, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Carolina Charlotte
Charlotte, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Walter, Michael G. — University of North Carolina Charlotte
- Study coordinator: Walter, Michael G.
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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.