Understanding how vitamin B12 affects a specific enzyme involved in bacteriochlorophyll production
Official title: Elucidating the Role of Cobalamin in BchE, a B12-Binding Radical SAM Enzyme
Funded at Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-11008912 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how vitamin B12 helps a special enzyme work in certain bacteria, which could lead to new ideas for fighting antibiotic resistance and cancer, making it important for anyone interested in better health solutions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $78,040 |
| NIH project number | 5F32GM149173-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11008912 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 related to antibiotic resistance or certain types of cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with unrelated health conditions or those not affected by antibiotic resistance or cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cobalamin (vitamin B12) in a unique enzyme called BchE, which is involved in the biosynthesis of bacteriochlorophyll a. The project aims to explore how this enzyme catalyzes specific reactions that are crucial for the formation of a vital component in certain bacteria. By utilizing advanced biochemical techniques and bioinformatics, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind this enzyme's function, which has implications for understanding microbial processes and potential applications in medicine. Patients may benefit from insights gained about antibiotic resistance and cancer treatment through a better understanding of these biochemical pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for combating antibiotic resistance and improving cancer therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the roles of similar enzymes in biochemical processes, indicating potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State University, the
University Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: York, Nicholas James — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: York, Nicholas James
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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.