Investigating membrane proteins using DNA-based tools
Official title: Small and Mechanosensitive Membrane Proteins Studied with DNA-based Tools
Funded at Kent State University · NIH-10893014 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about finding new ways to understand important proteins in our cells that help with things like transporting nutrients and communication, and it's designed for anyone interested in how these proteins work and how we might develop better medicines targeting them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kent State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kent, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $373,211 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM142706-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10893014 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by diseases where membrane proteins play a significant role, such as infectious diseases or conditions requiring targeted drug therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to membrane protein function may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding membrane proteins (MPs), which are crucial for various cellular functions such as nutrient transport and cell communication. The study aims to develop innovative DNA-based tools that can help determine the molecular structures of these proteins, which are typically difficult to analyze due to their embedding in lipid membranes. By creating DNA-lipid nanodiscs, the researchers will provide a more suitable environment for MPs, allowing for better insights into their roles in health and disease. This could lead to advancements in drug development targeting these proteins.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of membrane proteins, leading to improved treatments for various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to study membrane proteins, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Kent State University
Kent, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schmidt, Thorsten Lars — Kent State University
- Study coordinator: Schmidt, Thorsten Lars
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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.