How ribosomes make proteins in bacteria and human cells
Elucidating the mechanisms that enable translation in bacterial and eukaryotic ribosomes
Using advanced computer simulations and structural data to map differences between bacterial and human protein-making machinery to help guide better antibiotics and understand ribosome-linked diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11333747 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses high-resolution structural data and atom-level computer simulations to watch how ribosomes — the cell's protein factories — change shape and work. Researchers compare bacterial ribosomes with human cytosolic and mitochondrial ribosomes to pinpoint interactions that control accuracy and speed. The team combines simulation techniques with existing cryo-electron microscopy information rather than testing treatments in people. Findings aim to reveal targets for antibiotics and explain how ribosome problems contribute to disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with bacterial infections (especially antibiotic-resistant infections) and patients with conditions linked to ribosome dysfunction could be most relevant to research like this.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to bacterial infection or ribosome-linked biology, or those needing immediate clinical treatment, are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could help design more effective antibiotics with fewer side effects and improve understanding of diseases caused by ribosome dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous cryo-EM and computational studies have already provided atomic-level insights into ribosome function and helped guide antibiotic discovery, so this continues an established and productive approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Northeastern University — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Whitford, Paul Charles — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Whitford, Paul Charles
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.