How Enzymes Protect Our Bodies from Harmful Oxygen
Electron Transfer in Iron and Copper Oxygenases and Oxidases
This research looks at how important enzymes in our bodies handle oxygen to prevent damage and help process medications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pasadena, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11123720 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on special enzymes to use oxygen, but this process can sometimes create harmful byproducts. This research explores how these vital enzymes, particularly a group called cytochromes P450, protect themselves from damage while performing their essential tasks. These P450 enzymes are involved in processing medications, breaking down toxins, and making important substances in the body. By understanding how they stay safe, we hope to improve how drugs work and reduce unwanted side effects. This work could also shed light on how our bodies handle substances that might cause cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation but aims to benefit anyone who takes medications or is exposed to environmental toxins.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical interventions would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding these enzyme protection mechanisms could lead to safer and more effective medications by improving drug design and reducing harmful drug interactions.
How similar studies have performed: This foundational work builds upon established principles of enzyme chemistry and aims to uncover new details about their protective mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Pasadena, United States
- California Institute of Technology — Pasadena, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gray, Harry B — California Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Gray, Harry B
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.