Investigating how proteins change shape using a new chemical method

Probing conformational changes by protein surface azidation

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11055474

This study is testing a new way to see how proteins change shape in different situations, which could help us understand diseases better and find new treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11055474 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel method called Protein Surface Azidation Mass Spectrometry (ProSurA-MS) to study how proteins change their shape in response to various conditions. By using special azide-containing chemicals, the researchers aim to detect these conformational changes with high sensitivity and reliability in their natural environments. This method allows for a detailed analysis of protein interactions and dynamics, which could lead to a better understanding of biological processes and disease mechanisms. Patients may benefit from insights gained through this research that could inform new therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to protein misfolding or dysfunction, such as certain genetic disorders or neurodegenerative diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to protein dynamics or those not requiring advanced biochemical analysis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding protein dynamics, potentially informing new treatments for various diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success with similar biophysical approaches, indicating that this method could yield valuable insights into protein behavior.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.