Mapping and manipulating proteins that contain cysteine in the body
Official title: Chemical proteomic mapping and functional manipulation of extracellular proteinaceous cysteines
Funded at Northwestern University · NIH-10938333 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at specific parts of proteins called cysteine residues to see how they help proteins work properly, especially those found outside of cells, which could lead to new ideas for developing medicines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $389,995 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM154945-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10938333 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to protein misfolding or oxidative stress, which may benefit from enhanced understanding of cysteine interactions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to protein function or oxidative stress may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of cysteine residues in proteins, which are crucial for protein stability and function. By using specialized chemical probes, the study aims to identify and analyze cysteine sites in various proteins, particularly those found outside of cells. This approach will help uncover how these cysteines react in different biological environments, potentially leading to new insights in drug development and protein functionality. The research seeks to fill a significant knowledge gap regarding extracellular proteins and their reactive cysteines.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting protein interactions and functions, improving treatment options for various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using chemical proteomics to study protein interactions, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Xiaoyu — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Xiaoyu
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.