Improving acoustic reporter genes for better imaging of gene expression
Official title: Next-generation design of acoustic reporter genes with optimal assembly
Funded at Rice University · NIH-10941264 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to make tiny gas-filled structures that help doctors see what's happening with genes inside the body using ultrasound, which could lead to better ways to monitor and treat different health conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rice University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 10, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $375,371 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM155015-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10941264 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that require deep tissue imaging or monitoring of gene expression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions that do not involve gene expression monitoring or deep tissue imaging may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the design of gas vesicles, which are unique protein nanostructures that allow for ultrasound imaging of gene expression deep within biological tissues. By overcoming the limitations of traditional optical methods, this project aims to improve the understanding of how these gas vesicles can be effectively assembled in non-native host organisms. The research involves both fundamental science to explore the molecular mechanisms of gas vesicle assembly and practical applications in areas like drug delivery and multimodal imaging. Patients may benefit from advancements in imaging techniques that could lead to better monitoring of gene expression in various medical conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective imaging techniques for monitoring gene expression, improving diagnosis and treatment strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using gas vesicles for imaging, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
Rice University
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lu, George J — Rice University
- Study coordinator: Lu, George J
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.