Improving protein stability analysis with advanced 3D printing technology
Official title: 3D printed, multi-material microfluidic calorimetry: Critical tools to study protein stability
Funded at Brigham Young University · NIH-10514227 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new, tiny device made with 3D printing that helps scientists measure how proteins change when they unfold, which is important for understanding diseases and could speed up the discovery of new medicines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham Young University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Provo, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2019 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $404,934 |
| NIH project number | 2R15GM132868-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10514227 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by diseases associated with protein misfolding or instability, particularly those with amyloidosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to protein stability or those not affected by amyloid diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new type of micro-calorimeter using 3D printing technology to enhance the measurement of protein stability. By miniaturizing the adiabatic scanning calorimeter, the project aims to provide more accurate thermodynamic data during protein unfolding, which is crucial for understanding various diseases. The approach involves creating custom microfluidic devices that can precisely measure changes in heat and energy associated with protein behavior. This innovative method could significantly accelerate discoveries in pharmacology and biological chemistry.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatments for diseases related to protein stability, such as amyloidosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in micro-calorimetry has shown promise, but this specific approach using 3D printing is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham Young University
Provo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Munro, Troy — Brigham Young University
- Study coordinator: Munro, Troy
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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.