Improving a special X-ray technique to understand how important molecules in our bodies work
Development of high-dose time-resolved X-ray footprinting technologies to enable detailed structural and kinetics information to be obtained for challenging biological problems
This project is making a powerful X-ray technique called XFMS even better and more available to scientists across the country, helping them learn more about how proteins and other biological molecules function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Calif-Lawrenc Berkeley Lab NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11089508 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on tiny molecules like proteins and antibodies to do their jobs, and understanding their exact shapes and movements is key to developing new medicines. This project focuses on enhancing a special X-ray technique, X-ray footprinting mass spectrometry (XFMS), which helps scientists map out these molecules in detail. By making this tool more advanced and easier for researchers to use, we can gain deeper insights into how biological systems work. The improvements will allow scientists to study even more complex biological problems, potentially leading to new ways to fight diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project is focused on developing a research tool, so it does not directly involve patient participation, but future research using this tool could benefit patients with various conditions.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention will not find direct benefit from this foundational technology development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this enhanced technology will provide biomedical researchers with a more powerful tool to understand disease mechanisms and develop new treatments.
How similar studies have performed: X-ray footprinting mass spectrometry (XFMS) is an established method that has provided useful structural information across diverse biological systems, and this project builds on previous successes in instrument development.
Where this research is happening
Berkeley, United States
- University of Calif-Lawrenc Berkeley Lab — Berkeley, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ralston, Corie Y — University of Calif-Lawrenc Berkeley Lab
- Study coordinator: Ralston, Corie Y
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.