Understanding how botulinum neurotoxins work at a molecular level
Official title: Resolving the intoxication mechanism of botulinum neurotoxins using single molecule structural biology
Funded at State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-11034543 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how botulinum toxins work at a tiny level to better understand their effects, which could help improve treatments for people affected by these toxins.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $107,410 |
| NIH project number | 3R01GM151334-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11034543 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients who have been affected by botulinum toxin exposure or related conditions would be ideal candidates to benefit from this research.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to botulinum toxins or those who have not been exposed to these toxins may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on investigating the mechanisms by which botulinum neurotoxins cause intoxication. Using advanced single molecule structural biology techniques, the team aims to analyze the interactions and behaviors of these toxins at a molecular level. The research involves the use of a specialized Fast Protein Liquid Chromatography (FPLC) system to purify and study recombinant proteins, which are essential for understanding the toxins' effects. By enhancing the capabilities of their laboratory equipment, the researchers hope to gain deeper insights into the structure and function of these harmful substances.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for conditions caused by botulinum toxins, potentially enhancing patient safety and therapeutic options.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has successfully utilized similar molecular biology techniques to understand toxin mechanisms, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
State University New York Stony Brook
Stony Brook, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bowen, Mark E — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Bowen, Mark E
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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.