Understanding protein structures to improve treatments for infections
Official title: Hybrid Methods for Dynamic Structure Analysis of Proteins from Pathogenic Microorganisms
Funded at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute · NIH-11072073 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the shapes and functions of proteins from harmful germs to find new ways to create antibiotics and antiviral medicines, which could help us better treat infections caused by bacteria and viruses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Troy, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2021 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $658,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM141818-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11072073 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria or viral infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections that are already effectively treated with existing antibiotics or antivirals may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on analyzing the diverse structures of proteins from harmful microorganisms to gain insights into their functions and interactions. By studying Integral Membrane Proteins (IMPs) and how viruses interact with their hosts, the research aims to identify new targets for antibiotic and antiviral drug development. Advanced techniques such as NMR, small angle X-ray scattering, and innovative modeling will be employed to explore these proteins in detail. This could lead to breakthroughs in how we treat infections caused by bacteria and viruses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective antibiotics and antiviral medications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using structural analysis of proteins to develop new therapeutic agents, indicating that this approach could yield significant results.
Where this research is happening
-
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Troy, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Montelione, Gaetano T — Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
- Study coordinator: Montelione, Gaetano T
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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.