Investigating how changes in molecular structure affect protein behavior
Official title: Exploring the Impact of Altered Backbone Composition on Protein Folding and Function
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11054632 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to create new artificial molecules that act like proteins, which are important for our body's functions, to help improve drug development and treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $273,329 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM149220-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11054632 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with genetic disorders or diseases related to protein misfolding.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to protein function or structure may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the design and creation of artificial molecules that can mimic the structure and function of proteins, which are crucial for many biological processes. By altering the backbone composition of these molecules, the study aims to understand how these changes influence protein folding and functionality. The approach involves synthesizing sequence-specific oligomers that can form complex structures similar to natural proteins, potentially leading to new biomimetic materials. Patients may benefit from advancements in drug development and therapeutic strategies that arise from a better understanding of protein behavior.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments and therapies that utilize artificial proteins to address various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in developing protein mimetics, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Horne, William Seth — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Horne, William Seth
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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.