Understanding how proteins are organized to predict what they do
Defining the modular architecture of protein intrinsically disordered regions for a predictive understanding of biological function
This project aims to discover how certain flexible parts of proteins are structured, which could help us better understand their roles in the body.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11177821 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Proteins are essential building blocks in our bodies, and some parts of them are very flexible, called intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs). We know that the more rigid parts of proteins have predictable structures that tell us what they do. This research explores whether these flexible IDRs also have hidden organizational patterns that could help us predict their functions. By developing new ways to look at protein sequences, we've found that these flexible regions are indeed organized into distinct modules. This work could reveal a fundamental principle of how proteins work.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational biological research does not directly involve patients, but it contributes to the basic knowledge that underpins future medical advancements.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate diagnostic tools or direct treatments will not find them in this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide a foundational understanding of how proteins function, which is crucial for developing new treatments for diseases linked to protein problems.
How similar studies have performed: This project introduces a novel statistical approach to uncover organizational principles in intrinsically disordered regions, building on existing knowledge of structured proteins.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parker, Matthew W. — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Parker, Matthew W.
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.