Investigating how proteins are made and regulated in cells using advanced imaging techniques.
Structural Studies of Macromolecular Assemblies Using Cryo-EM
This study is looking at how proteins are made and controlled in our cells using advanced imaging techniques, which could help us find new treatments for diseases caused by problems with protein production.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11015855 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the fundamental processes involved in protein synthesis and regulation within cells. Using a cutting-edge technique called cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), researchers will capture high-resolution images of proteins in various states during their formation. The study employs both standard and time-resolved cryo-EM methods to visualize short-lived molecular states, which can provide insights into how proteins function and are controlled in different organisms, including bacteria and humans. Patients may benefit from the findings as they could lead to new treatments for diseases related to protein synthesis dysfunction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with genetic disorders related to protein synthesis, such as cystic fibrosis.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to protein synthesis or those not affected by genetic disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for conditions caused by protein synthesis errors, such as certain genetic disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research using cryo-EM has shown promising results in visualizing protein structures, indicating that this approach has the potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Frank, Joachim — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Frank, Joachim
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 below.