Improving mass spectrometry for better analysis of proteins and nucleic acids
Official title: Advancing Native Mass Spectrometry Analysis with Easier, Faster and More Accurate Intact Mass Deconvolution for Proteins and Nucleic Acids
Funded at Massmatrix, INC. · NIH-11068509 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to quickly and accurately measure the size of proteins and nucleic acids, which could help scientists better understand how these important molecules affect our health and diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massmatrix, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $316,825 |
| NIH project number | 1R41GM157865-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11068509 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with conditions that require detailed molecular analysis, such as those involved in biopharmaceutical treatments or genetic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require molecular weight determination of proteins or nucleic acids may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing native mass spectrometry (MS) analysis by developing a new method for accurately determining the molecular weight of proteins and nucleic acids. The project aims to tackle existing challenges such as slow processing speeds and data artifacts, making the analysis faster and more user-friendly. It involves implementing advanced deconvolution techniques, automating spectrum reconstruction, and evaluating the performance of the new method against current technologies. If successful, this research could significantly improve the capabilities of mass spectrometry in understanding biological molecules and their roles in health and disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide more accurate and efficient tools for analyzing proteins and nucleic acids, leading to better insights into various health conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in improving mass spectrometry techniques, but this specific approach to intact mass deconvolution is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Massmatrix, INC.
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Freitas, Michael a. — Massmatrix, INC.
- Study coordinator: Freitas, Michael a.
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.