Exploring new molecular structures from unique enzyme transformations.
Official title: Enzyme Chemistry and Biological Function of RiPP-like Modifications.
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-11224193 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring special types of peptides made by our cells to understand how they are created and what they do, which could help us discover new treatments for various health conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $405,124 |
| NIH project number | 7R01GM097142-14 |
| Project ID | NIH-11224193 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals interested in the biochemical and therapeutic potential of novel peptide structures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to peptide biology or those not interested in experimental biochemical research may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the chemistry and biological functions of ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs). By utilizing advanced genomic analysis tools like RODEO, the team aims to identify and characterize new molecular structures formed through unusual enzymatic transformations. The study focuses on understanding the biosynthetic routes and the diverse functions of these peptides, which could lead to new insights in molecular biology and potential therapeutic applications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the discovery of novel peptides with unique properties that may have therapeutic applications.
How similar studies have gone: While the exploration of RiPPs is a well-established field, the specific approach of utilizing AI-based genome mining tools for novel RiPP-like structures is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mitchell, Douglas Alan — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Mitchell, Douglas Alan
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Understanding how peer norms around alcohol and HIV prevention affect adolescents and young adults in rural Uganda
This project studies how what young people think their peers do or approve of influences drinking and HIV prevention behaviors in rural Uganda, with the goal of improving health outcomes.
-
Cancer Pain Management for Asian American Breast Cancer Survivors with Depressive Symptoms
A technology-based program helps Asian American breast cancer survivors with depressive symptoms manage chronic pain more effectively from home using a web app and mobile tools.
-
Targeted gene silencing in the brain using siRNA helpers
This grant tests a new way to turn off specific brain genes in particular CNS cell types using siRNA conjugates to help understand brain biology and disease.
-
RSELVES Study: How older couples influence daily life and function with Alzheimer’s risk
A study to understand how daily routines and support between older adults and their partners relate to the development of Alzheimer’s-related functional decline.
-
Molecular mechanisms of coat assembly and regulation in membrane trafficking
A research project seeks to understand how cellular coats organize and regulate the delivery of membrane-bound cargo, with a focus on proteins related to neurological diseases.
-
Synaptic nanostructure in neurodevelopmental disorders
This project aims to map the tiny architecture of brain synapses in native cells to understand how connections form and change in neurodevelopmental disorders.
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.