Improving imaging techniques for studying cell structures
Official title: Altering electron-induced radiolysis to optimize cryo-EM/ET imaging
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10869343 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on improving a special imaging technique to take clearer pictures of proteins and other important molecules inside living cells, which could help scientists understand how these molecules work together in their natural settings.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | September 4, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $344,400 |
| NIH project number | 1R01GM154131-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10869343 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve cellular dysfunctions, such as cancer or neurodegenerative diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-progressive conditions that do not involve cellular imaging or molecular interactions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) to better visualize the three-dimensional structures of proteins and other biomolecules within living cells. By developing new sample preparation methods, the researchers aim to minimize damage caused by electron radiation during imaging, which can obscure important details. This approach will allow for more accurate and detailed imaging of cellular components, helping to reveal how they function and interact in their natural environments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding cellular processes and diseases at a molecular level.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in improving imaging techniques, but this specific approach to reducing electron-induced damage is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nicastro, Daniela — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Nicastro, Daniela
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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.