Understanding how certain proteins can change their shape and function
Official title: Characterization of RfaH evolution and folding dynamics: pairing in vitro and in situ methods
Funded at U.s. National Heart Lung and Blood Inst · NIH-10940629 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called RfaH that can change its shape to do different jobs, and by understanding how this happens, we hope to learn more about how similar proteins work, which could be important for fighting infections like COVID-19.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | U.s. National Heart Lung and Blood Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bethesda, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 1FI2GM154712-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10940629 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by diseases related to protein misfolding or those interested in the biological mechanisms of viral infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to protein folding or viral infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the evolution and dynamics of a specific protein called RfaH, which can switch between two different shapes, each with distinct functions. By using advanced methods to analyze these proteins both in the lab and in living cells, the researchers aim to uncover how these shape changes occur and what evolutionary pathways led to them. This could help in understanding similar proteins that play crucial roles in various biological processes, including responses to infections like COVID-19.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into protein functions that may improve treatments for diseases, including COVID-19.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding protein folding dynamics, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
U.s. National Heart Lung and Blood Inst
Bethesda, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ronish, Leslie — U.s. National Heart Lung and Blood Inst
- Study coordinator: Ronish, Leslie
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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This study is looking at how certain stresses on DNA can make cancer and antibacterial drugs work better, with the goal of finding safer and more effective treatments for people dealing with tough-to-treat infections and cancers.
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.