Research Starter Grant: A Combined Aptamer/Theoretical Approach for Predicting Macromolecular Interactions

Drexel University, Philadelphia PA

Investigators

Abstract

In this Starter Research Grant, the PI will develop and apply a quantitative, semi-empirical method to predict the mechanism by which proteins interact. This analysis will provide an insight into protein function. The emphasis of this research is to build a combined theoretical and experimental framework that can quantitatively determine how ligand molecules interact with biological macromolecules of interest. The method combines a linear interaction method recently developed with a combinatorial technique using aptamer libraries. The PI's institution works actively to encourage students from underrepresented groups to study science through outreach programs and this research project is expected to play an important role in this educational process. The PI will train graduate and undergraduate students.