Investigating the role of specific enzymes in sterol metabolism
Official title: Structural requirements for sterol 14α-demethylases
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-11137655 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a specific group of enzymes that help make important substances in cells, and it's trying to create new medicines that can fight fungal infections without hurting healthy human cells, so patients can have better treatments with fewer side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $364,550 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM151876-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11137655 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from fungal infections that are difficult to treat with existing medications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with bacterial infections or those not affected by fungal pathogens may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding cytochromes P450, particularly the sterol 14α-demethylases (CYP51), which are crucial for the biosynthesis of sterols. By examining the structural requirements and catalytic mechanisms of these enzymes, the research aims to develop new, selective inhibitors that can target pathogens without harming human cells. The approach includes advanced techniques like X-ray crystallography and structure-based drug design to create a library of potential drug candidates. Patients may benefit from new treatments for fungal infections that are more effective and have fewer side effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel, non-toxic treatments for fungal infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in targeting cytochrome P450 enzymes for drug development, indicating a promising avenue for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lepesheva, Galina I — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Lepesheva, Galina I
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.