Making protein medicines safer and longer-lasting with smarter PEG attachments
Official title: Optimization of Therapeutic Protein PEGylation by Integrating Coarse-grain Simulation and Cell-free Protein Synthesis
Funded at Brigham Young University · NIH-11361270 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A researcher is testing new ways to attach PEG to therapeutic proteins so they last longer in the body without losing function, helping people who rely on protein-based medicines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham Young University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Provo, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $558,383 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM164971-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11361270 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients who rely on therapeutic proteins and could benefit from longer-lasting, better-tolerated formulations.
✕Less likely to help
Not all proteins can be PEGylated effectively; some therapies may not benefit from this approach.
What this research studies
This project combines computer simulations with cell-free protein synthesis to design smarter PEG attachments that improve stability and circulation time of therapeutic proteins. The team aims to reduce immune detection and premature breakdown, while preserving therapeutic activity. If successful, the approach could lead to more effective, longer-lasting protein therapies with fewer doses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could make protein medicines work better for longer in patients, potentially reducing dosing frequency and side effects.
How similar studies have gone: Prior PEGylation work showed benefits in pharmacokinetics, but this project seeks to expand applicability and control.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham Young University
Provo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bundy, Bradley — Brigham Young University
- Study coordinator: Bundy, Bradley
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.