Using iron and copper to create new methods for nitrogen fixation and organic synthesis
Official title: Catalytic Nitrogen Fixation and C-N Bond Constructions Mediated by Iron and Copper as Models of Biocatalysis and Tools for Organic Synthesis
Funded at California Institute of Technology · NIH-11070346 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to help plants and make medicines by using special metals like iron and copper to create important chemical bonds, which could lead to better farming and drug development for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pasadena, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $410,249 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM153322-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070346 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals interested in advancements in drug development or agricultural technologies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to drug synthesis or agricultural applications may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative methods for nitrogen fixation and constructing carbon-nitrogen bonds using iron and copper as catalysts. By studying the mechanisms of these reactions, the research aims to create more efficient biocatalytic processes that mimic natural enzymes. Patients may benefit from advancements in drug synthesis and agricultural applications that arise from these new chemical methods. The research employs a combination of electrochemical and photochemical techniques to explore and optimize these catalytic processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more efficient production of essential compounds used in pharmaceuticals and agriculture.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using similar catalytic approaches for nitrogen fixation and organic synthesis.
Where this research is happening
-
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peters, Jonas C — California Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Peters, Jonas C
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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.