New method for imaging cellular processes at the nanoscale
Official title: Dynamic nanoscale cellular imaging via time-resolved cryo-vitrification
Funded at Harvard University · NIH-10855414 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a new tool to help scientists see how cells react to different substances in real-time by freezing them for super-clear images, which could help us learn more about how cells work and interact with each other.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | September 25, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $349,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R01GM154030-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10855414 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with conditions that involve rapid cellular changes, such as certain cancers or autoimmune diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, chronic conditions that do not involve dynamic cellular processes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a groundbreaking tool that allows scientists to stimulate biological cells with various compounds and then freeze them for high-resolution imaging. By using a technique called Vitrification Experiment Resolved In Time After Stimulation (VERITAS), researchers will be able to capture rapid cellular changes that occur in response to stimuli, which are often missed by traditional microscopy. This innovative approach combines time-resolved cryo-vitrification with advanced imaging techniques to explore cellular dynamics in unprecedented detail. The findings could enhance our understanding of critical cellular functions and interactions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to significant advancements in our understanding of cellular processes, potentially informing new treatments for various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success with advanced imaging techniques, but this specific approach using time-resolved cryo-vitrification is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard University
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Prigozhin, Maxim — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Prigozhin, Maxim
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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.