Using light to incorporate important elements into drug compounds
Official title: MIRA: C(sp3)-H Heteroatom Incorporation Using Photoexcited Nitroarenes
Funded at New York University · NIH-11089595 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to make medicines by using light to add important building blocks to drug compounds, which could lead to cheaper and more effective treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $384,806 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150777-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11089595 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who may benefit from new drug therapies that incorporate hydroxyl and amine groups.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not seeking new drug therapies or those with conditions that do not require the incorporation of these specific functional groups may not benefit.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new method to incorporate essential heteroatom units, like hydroxyl and amine groups, into drug compounds using light. By utilizing economical nitroarenes as reagents, the research aims to activate C–H bonds without the need for expensive metals or harsh chemicals, making the process more accessible and environmentally friendly. The approach allows for a broader range of substrates to be used, which could lead to the creation of more effective medications. Patients may benefit from the development of new drugs that are easier and cheaper to produce.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective and affordable medications.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using light for chemical reactions, indicating that this approach could be a significant advancement in drug development.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parasram, Marvin — New York University
- Study coordinator: Parasram, Marvin
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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.