Mapping and engineering protein functions in the dark proteome
Official title: Spatiotemporal mapping and engineering in the dark proteome
Funded at Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-11019449 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins that don't have a fixed shape help move important molecules in and out of the cell's nucleus, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how these proteins work and how we might use them to create specific proteins for different purposes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $584,420 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM156806-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11019449 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions linked to protein misfolding or dysfunction, such as certain cancers or neurodegenerative diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to protein dynamics or those who do not have any protein-related disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the movements of disordered proteins play specific roles in cellular functions, particularly in the transport of biomolecules into and out of the cell nucleus. Using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy and simulations, the team aims to understand the dynamics of these proteins and how they can be engineered to produce specific proteins in targeted contexts. By collaborating with experts in various fields, the research seeks to create a detailed map of protein interactions and their effects on cellular processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases related to protein dysfunction, including various cancers and age-related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding protein dynamics and their implications in disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cowburn, David — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Cowburn, David
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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.