Investigating how to target specific reactive sites in protein interactions
Official title: Targeting hyper-reactive cysteines within PPI interfaces
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10901603 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how proteins interact in our bodies and aims to find specific spots on these proteins that could be targeted with new medicines to help treat diseases. By using advanced computer techniques to model protein shapes, the researchers hope to create a tool that can help discover these important areas for future drug development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $40,049 |
| NIH project number | 1F31GM154464-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10901603 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diseases linked to dysfunctional protein-protein interactions, such as certain cancers or neurodegenerative disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to protein interactions or those who do not have hyper-reactive cysteines involved in their disease processes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding protein-protein interactions (PPIs), which are crucial for many cellular functions and diseases. The project aims to identify hyper-reactive cysteines within these interactions that can be targeted with small molecules to potentially modulate their activity. By utilizing advanced AI methods for 3D modeling of protein structures, the research will develop a predictive tool to identify these reactive sites, paving the way for new drug development strategies. The approach combines computational modeling with experimental validation to enhance the effectiveness of potential treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new drugs that more effectively target and modulate protein interactions involved in various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting protein interactions using similar approaches, particularly in the development of covalent inhibitors, indicating a potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Durham, Jesse — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Durham, Jesse
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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.