Early Detection and Control of Protein Misfolding and Aggregation
A new research program in development to detect and modulate the earliest stages of protein dysfunction, before harmful aggregation and lasting cellular damage occur.
We are launching this new project and beginning a six-month pilot phase. Our initial goals are to select a target protein system, set up a minimal quantitative assay stack for early phase behavior and aggregation signals, and complete the first intervention cycle with reproducible readouts and clear pilot milestones.
In parallel, we are engaging with potential research team members and partner laboratories. As these discussions progress, we will share the pilot scope, the first milestone package, and a clear collaboration pathway for laboratories and investigators who can contribute biophysical assays, cell-based validation, or modulator development.
While this pilot is not disease-specific, its ability to detect and steer early protein misfolding and aggregation could later support pediatric oncology by enabling earlier, more targeted intervention strategies where protein state changes contribute to treatment resistance and toxicity.
Problem
Many severe diseases begin long before symptoms appear, at the level of protein behavior. Proteins can shift from functional states into dysfunctional ones, misfold, and begin forming early aggregates. By the time clinical signs are visible, damage may already be difficult to reverse. This timing gap is one of the central barriers to prevention and earlier intervention.
Solution
This project is being developed as a structured, testable program that combines quantitative experimental readouts with data driven modeling to detect early misfolding signatures and identify actionable intervention points. The goal is to build a reproducible workflow that can be applied to intrinsically disordered proteins and their transitions toward aggregation, with clear endpoints and rapid iteration cycles.
Earlier detection
Acting on the earliest measurable changes in protein behavior can open a window for prevention rather than late stage response.
Controllable biology
The focus is not only observation, but control, meaning measurable shifts away from aggregation prone trajectories using defined modulators and clear quantitative endpoints.
Reusable platform value
A validated workflow for early misfolding and aggregation control can become a reusable capability across multiple disease contexts.
Experimental component
We will use quantitative assays that capture early phase behavior and aggregation signals, and then test whether candidate modulators shift those signals in the desired direction. The initial assay set will be selected based on feasibility of rapid pilot cycles and clear quantitative readouts.
Computational and analytical component
We will analyze and model experimental time series and assay outputs to define the quantitative patterns that precede harmful aggregation. The aim is to identify measurable transition markers and to support rational iteration of interventions based on observed responses.
This project is being scoped around intrinsically disordered proteins and intrinsically disordered regions where early state transitions, phase behavior, and aggregation tendencies can be measured in a reproducible way. Final target selection is in progress as part of team formation and pilot planning.
We are seeking initial funding for a six-month pilot phase to develop and validate the target system, establish a minimal quantitative assay stack, and complete the first intervention cycle with reproducible readouts.
A clearly defined target system and measurable assay endpoints suitable for rapid pilots.
A first cycle library of candidate modulators and a reproducible experimental protocol for early aggregation related readouts.
Quantitative evidence that selected modulators can shift early protein behavior away from aggregation prone trajectories.
A structured plan for scaling the workflow into a broader program with clear milestones and reporting.
This project is built around a repeatable pilot workflow:
This project is in early development. We are in active discussions with potential research team members and partner laboratories to finalize the target system, assay stack, and pilot milestones.
We are currently forming partnerships with laboratories and research groups that can support one or more of the following: quantitative protein phase behavior and aggregation assays, rapid experimental iteration cycles, and development of small molecule or peptide based modulators with clear quantitative endpoints.
Interested collaborators can reach out through our Collaborate form.
