Using advanced electron microscopy to study biological structures
Official title: TFS Talos-L120C, a 120kV transmission electron microscope for structural studies
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-10852499 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is using advanced imaging technology to take a close look at tiny structures in our cells, which could help us understand how different molecules work together and lead to new treatments for health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $656,315 |
| NIH project number | 1S10OD036307-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10852499 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to cellular signaling, DNA replication issues, or other biological processes that could benefit from a deeper understanding of molecular interactions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to the biological mechanisms being studied, such as purely mechanical injuries or non-biological disorders, may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on using a state-of-the-art 120kV transmission electron microscope to investigate the structure of biological complexes at near atomic resolution. By employing techniques like single particle analysis cryo-electron microscopy, the research aims to understand complex interactions within cells, such as lipid-protein and protein-ligand interactions, which are crucial for developing new therapeutics. The findings could illuminate mechanisms underlying various biological processes, including DNA replication and calcium signaling, ultimately benefiting human health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new therapies by providing insights into the molecular mechanisms of diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using cryo-electron microscopy has shown significant success in elucidating complex biological structures, indicating that this approach is both promising and well-established.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nakagawa, Terunaga — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Nakagawa, Terunaga
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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.