Using nanodiscs to explore and modify cell membranes
Official title: Designer nanodiscs to probe and reprogram membrane biology
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11011144 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how cell membranes work and talk to each other, which is important for our health, and by using new tools, researchers hope to learn more about how cells send signals, potentially leading to better treatments for different diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $400,530 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM156801-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011144 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve disrupted cell signaling or membrane function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cell membrane biology or signaling may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how cell membranes function and communicate with each other, which is crucial for maintaining health. By developing advanced nanodiscs, the team aims to study the interactions between membrane proteins and lipids, which play a key role in cellular signaling. This innovative approach seeks to overcome limitations of traditional methods, allowing for deeper insights into how cells coordinate their activities. Patients may benefit from improved understanding of cellular processes that could lead to new treatments for various diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating diseases related to cell communication and signaling.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using innovative tools to study membrane biology, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bao, Huan — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Bao, Huan
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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.