How changes in biological sequences shape function and drug resistance
Characterizing the Effects of Sequence Variability in Molecular Function, Evolution and Design
Researchers are using computer models to predict how changes in proteins or DNA can alter function and lead to problems like antibiotic resistance, with the goal of helping patients with infections or genetic conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Dallas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richardson, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11332449 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would be hearing about a project where scientists train powerful computer and machine-learning models on thousands of natural protein and DNA sequences to learn which changes keep function and which cause harm. They combine interpretable 'epistatic' models that capture interactions between changes with newer generative methods to map how sequence changes affect fitness and function. The team aims to improve prediction accuracy so they can flag mutations that produce drug resistance or disrupt proteins in genetic diseases. Most of this work uses existing sequence data and lab collaborations rather than enrolling patients directly.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People most likely to benefit include patients with drug-resistant infections or genetic conditions caused by mutations in proteins or DNA.
Not a fit: Patients whose health issues are unrelated to genetic or molecular changes, or who need immediate clinical treatment, are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this computational project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help clinicians and drug developers spot dangerous mutations earlier, guide antibiotic use, and speed the design of better drugs and diagnostics.
How similar studies have performed: Related computational approaches have already shown promise in predicting mutation effects and guiding protein engineering, though turning predictions into clinical tools is still developing.
Where this research is happening
Richardson, United States
- University of Texas Dallas — Richardson, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morcos, Alonso Faruck — University of Texas Dallas
- Study coordinator: Morcos, Alonso Faruck
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.