Understanding How Blood Clotting Proteins Work
Structural basis of prothrombin activation
['FUNDING_R01'] · SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11166380
This research aims to understand the detailed shapes and actions of proteins involved in blood clotting, like prothrombin, to better understand how clots form.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11166380 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project builds on previous work that has helped us understand how blood clotting proteins, especially thrombin and prothrombin, function. Researchers are using advanced imaging techniques, called cryo-EM, to get very detailed pictures of these proteins and how they interact. The goal is to map out the exact steps and changes these proteins go through when blood clotting begins. By seeing these structures, we can learn precisely how prothrombin turns into its active form, which is crucial for forming blood clots. This detailed knowledge will help us understand the fundamental processes behind both normal clotting and clotting disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation but aims to benefit individuals affected by blood clotting disorders in the future.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical interventions would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this fundamental understanding of blood clotting could lead to new ways to prevent or treat conditions like excessive bleeding or dangerous blood clots.
How similar studies have performed: The research builds upon significant prior contributions in understanding thrombin dynamics and prothrombin activation, utilizing established cryo-EM techniques that have proven successful in visualizing complex protein structures.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DI CERA, ENRICO — SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: DI CERA, ENRICO
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 below.