Understanding how proteins behave in biological systems through computer modeling
Official title: Multiscale Computational Models to Investigate the Role of Phase Separation in Biology
Funded at Texas Engineering Experiment Station · NIH-11075255 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how proteins clump together in our cells, which is important for keeping everything organized and working well, especially in conditions like Alzheimer's, and it aims to help scientists predict how these clumps form to improve future treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas Engineering Experiment Station NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $393,957 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM153388-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11075255 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those without cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how proteins form biomolecular condensates, which are crucial for cellular organization and function. By combining advanced computer modeling with experimental techniques like NMR and microscopy, the project aims to uncover the relationship between protein sequences and their ability to phase separate. This approach will help researchers understand the dynamics of these condensates, particularly in the context of diseases like Alzheimer's. The goal is to create predictive models that can inform future biological studies and therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease and potentially identify novel therapeutic targets.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using multiscale computational models is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in other areas of biological research.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas Engineering Experiment Station
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mittal, Jeetain — Texas Engineering Experiment Station
- Study coordinator: Mittal, Jeetain
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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.