How changes far from an enzyme's active site can change how the enzyme works
Linking the conformational landscape to enzymatic function through functional site distant mutations
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE · NIH-11248352
Researchers are looking at whether small changes far from a key human enzyme change its shape and activity in ways that could point to new cancer or antiviral treatments.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LOUISVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11248352 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project studies a human enzyme called guanylate kinase using detailed lab experiments and NMR spectroscopy to watch how the protein moves. Scientists introduce specific mutations far from the enzyme's active site and measure how those changes alter the protein’s shape and reaction speed. The team compares mutated proteins to the normal enzyme to map the conformational landscape that controls activity. Results could reveal new ways to target enzyme behavior for drug development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers driven by pathways involving guanylate kinase or individuals willing to donate biological samples for laboratory research may be most connected to this work.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatment or those whose conditions are unrelated to guanylate kinase are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new drug targets or strategies that change enzyme behavior to help treat some cancers or viral infections.
How similar studies have performed: Prior biochemical and structural studies have shown that distant mutations can alter enzyme behavior, but using that knowledge to create therapies is still early and exploratory.
Where this research is happening
LOUISVILLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE — LOUISVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SABO, THOMAS MICHAEL — UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE
- Study coordinator: SABO, THOMAS MICHAEL
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.
Conditions: Anti-Cancer Agents