Understanding how certain proteins use manganese and iron for their functions
Metallobiochemistry of Mn/Fe protein cofactors
This study is looking at special proteins that contain manganese and iron, which help certain organisms survive in tough conditions and avoid the immune system, to better understand how they work and what makes them unique.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10834484 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the unique properties of manganese and iron proteins, which are important for various biological processes. The team will explore how these proteins assemble their metal cofactors and activate oxygen to facilitate chemical reactions. By using advanced spectroscopic techniques, they aim to uncover the molecular details of these processes, particularly in proteins found in extremophiles and pathogens. This work could provide insights into how these proteins help organisms survive in harsh environments and evade the immune system.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with infections caused by extremophilic or pathogenic organisms, such as Chlamydia or Mycobacteria, may benefit from this research.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to the mechanisms of manganese and iron proteins may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for targeting pathogenic organisms that utilize these metal proteins, potentially improving treatment options.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on Mn/Fe proteins is relatively novel, similar research on metal cofactors in enzymes has shown promising results in understanding their roles in biological systems.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shafaat, Hannah S — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Shafaat, Hannah S
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.