Investigating how proteins fold in living cells
Imaging cotranslational protein folding with high spatiotemporal resolution in living cells
This study is looking at how proteins fold inside living cells, which is important for understanding diseases like Alzheimer's and cystic fibrosis, and it uses special imaging tools to see this process in real-time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11014443 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms of protein folding, which is crucial for many diseases, including Alzheimer's and cystic fibrosis. By using advanced imaging techniques, the researchers aim to capture the real-time folding of proteins within living cells. They will employ single-molecule fluorescence microscopy and specially designed intrabodies to differentiate between folded and unfolded proteins. This innovative approach will allow for the observation of protein folding dynamics as they occur, providing insights into how misfolding contributes to disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by diseases associated with protein misfolding, particularly those with Alzheimer's disease or cystic fibrosis.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to protein misfolding or those not exhibiting symptoms of the targeted diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for diseases related to protein misfolding, such as Alzheimer's and cystic fibrosis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding protein folding dynamics, but this specific approach using real-time imaging in living cells is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhao, Ning — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Zhao, Ning
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.