Understanding how metalloenzymes use different metals for chemical reactions
Official title: From Fundamental Studies of Metalloproteins to Practical Applications
Funded at Baylor University · NIH-11082611 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special proteins called metalloenzymes that use metal ions to help with chemical reactions, and it's for anyone interested in how these enzymes choose different metals to do similar jobs, which could lead to better ways to create useful catalysts.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Waco, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $246,871 |
| NIH project number | 7R15GM148939-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082611 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with conditions that could be treated or improved through enhanced catalytic processes, such as metabolic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to enzymatic function or metal ion metabolism may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates metalloenzymes, which are proteins that use metal ions to catalyze complex chemical reactions. The study aims to uncover why different enzymes from the same family can utilize various metal cofactors to perform similar functions. By exploring the molecular interactions that dictate these preferences, the research seeks to enhance our understanding of enzymatic function and potentially improve the design of catalysts. The project will involve detailed biochemical analyses and experiments to elucidate the origins of metal selection in these enzymes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to advancements in the design of more efficient catalysts for various chemical processes, benefiting industries such as pharmaceuticals and biofuels.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar studies on metalloenzymes have shown promise in understanding enzyme function and improving catalytic efficiency.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor University
Waco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Makhlynets, Olga — Baylor University
- Study coordinator: Makhlynets, Olga
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.