New sensors to study how histones are modified by ubiquitin
Official title: Novel recombinant sensors to study histone ubiquitin signaling
Funded at Epicypher, INC. · NIH-10850682 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new tools called UbSensors™ that can help scientists see how a special process involving proteins called histones affects DNA, which is important for keeping our cells healthy and fixing damage; this could lead to better ways to understand and treat diseases like cancer and age-related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Epicypher, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Research Triangle Park, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,273,178 |
| NIH project number | 5R44GM149036-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10850682 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by cancers or age-related diseases where histone modifications play a significant role.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to histone modifications or those not experiencing cancer or aging-related diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative detection reagents called UbSensors™ that can specifically identify and analyze the modification of histones by ubiquitin, a process crucial for DNA functions like replication and repair. By addressing the limitations of current detection tools, the project aims to enhance our understanding of histone ubiquitin signaling, which is linked to various diseases, including cancer and aging. The approach involves using a structure-guided method to create highly selective sensors that can operate in living organisms, potentially leading to new drug and biomarker discoveries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatments for diseases associated with abnormal histone ubiquitin signaling.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in developing detection tools for similar biological processes, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Epicypher, INC.
Research Triangle Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sun, Zu-Wen — Epicypher, INC.
- Study coordinator: Sun, Zu-Wen
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.