Investigating how certain proteins help archaea produce and consume methane
Official title: Developing Methanosarcina spp. as a model system to study cytochromes c and their role in archaeal methane metabolism
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-10929298 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny microorganisms that help break down methane, a gas that affects our climate, to learn how they work and grow, which could help us understand more about methane's impact on the environment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $63,667 |
| NIH project number | 5F32GM150233-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10929298 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in environmental health and the impacts of methane on climate change.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to methane metabolism or environmental health may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of cytochromes c in methane-metabolizing archaea, which are microorganisms that play a significant role in the global methane cycle and climate change. The project aims to develop a genetically tractable model system using Methanosarcina acetivorans to explore the molecular mechanisms behind methane metabolism. By utilizing advanced genetic and biochemical techniques, the research seeks to characterize how these proteins function and their importance in energy conservation and growth in these archaea. This could provide insights into the broader implications of methane production and consumption in the environment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of methane emissions, potentially aiding in climate change mitigation efforts.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using Methanosarcina acetivorans is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding microbial roles in methane metabolism.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gupta, Dinesh — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Gupta, Dinesh
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.