Understanding how protons affect protein behavior in biology
Official title: Molecular mechanisms of proton-coupled dynamic processes in biology
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-10909799 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny particles called protons affect the way proteins work in our bodies, especially in cancer cells that resist treatment, to help create better drugs for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $386,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM148261-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909799 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that exhibit drug resistance, particularly those involving the ABCG2 protein.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancers do not involve proton-coupled dynamics may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms by which protons influence protein dynamics and functions in biological systems. Using advanced techniques like cryogenic electron microscopy and molecular dynamics simulations, the study aims to uncover how changes in pH and proton interactions affect proteins, particularly those involved in drug resistance in cancer. By analyzing high-resolution protein structures, the research seeks to provide insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies. Patients may benefit from improved drug designs targeting resistant cancer proteins.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective cancer treatments by overcoming drug resistance.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using molecular dynamics and cryo-EM to understand protein behavior, indicating a strong potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shen, Jana — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Shen, Jana
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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.