How proteins in a complex evolve to function better together
Evolution of new protein function in the multi-protein, multi-functional Toll-like receptor 4 complex
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF OREGON · NIH-11058460
This study looks at how a key part of our immune system, called the TLR4 complex, has changed over time to help our bodies fight infections and heal from injuries, and the findings could lead to better treatments for people with inflammatory conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF OREGON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (EUGENE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11058460 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the evolution of the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) complex, which plays a crucial role in how vertebrate animals respond to infections and tissue damage. By examining how this multi-protein complex has changed over millions of years, the research aims to understand how proteins can adapt their functions without disrupting the overall system. The study will utilize advanced techniques such as phylogenetic analysis and ancestral sequence reconstruction to uncover the evolutionary processes that shaped this complex. Patients may benefit from insights gained about TLR4 as it is a target for treatments of inflammatory disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with inflammatory disorders or conditions related to immune response.
Not a fit: Patients with non-inflammatory conditions or those not affected by immune response issues may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating inflammatory disorders by enhancing our understanding of protein functions.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding protein complexes and their evolution, indicating that this approach is promising and builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
EUGENE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF OREGON — EUGENE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HARMS, MICHAEL JONATHAN — UNIVERSITY OF OREGON
- Study coordinator: HARMS, MICHAEL JONATHAN
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.