Improving how we see tiny proteins involved in human diseases
Breaking barriers in CryoEM through computational protein design
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-11126070
This project aims to develop new ways to clearly see the structures of very small proteins that play big roles in human health, like those involved in cancer and heart conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11126070 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on countless proteins, including tiny ones that act as gatekeepers on our cells, like G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which are important for cell communication and drug development. Currently, a powerful imaging technique called cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM) struggles to capture clear images of these small proteins because their signal is too weak. This project uses clever computational design to make these small proteins easier to see with cryoEM, allowing us to understand their shapes and how they work. By overcoming this limitation, we hope to unlock new insights into how these proteins contribute to diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with conditions linked to small proteins, such as certain cancers or heart rhythm problems, could eventually benefit from the new drug discoveries enabled by this foundational research.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not related to the function or structure of small proteins or GPCRs may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of disease-causing proteins, paving the way for the development of new and more effective medicines for conditions like cancer and cardiac arrhythmias.
How similar studies have performed: The lead researcher has previously succeeded in using a similar computational design approach to image a protein almost three times smaller than current cryoEM limits.
Where this research is happening
IRVINE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE — IRVINE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GONEN, SHANE — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE
- Study coordinator: GONEN, SHANE
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.
Conditions: Cancers