# RUI: Determining Non-Symbiotic Hemoglobin Function in Plants

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Drake University (IA) · $166,000

## Abstract

With this award, the Chemistry of Life Processes Program in the Chemistry Division will be funding Dr. Sturms from Drake University to investigate the ancestral function of non-oxygen transport hemoglobins in early forms of plant life. While most people are familiar with hemoglobin's role in transporting oxygen in blood, scientists have increasingly recognized that oxygen transport may not be the original function of these important proteins. Understanding the true ancestral purpose of hemoglobins will help us to understand basic rules about how proteins developed their specialized functions over millions of years. This research will focus on hemoglobin proteins found in bryophytes, which are simple plants like mosses and liverworts that still exist today but represent some of the earliest forms of plant life on Earth. By studying hemoglobins from early land plants, this research will uncover how these biological molecules support life processes, with potential applications for understanding metabolic disorders and developing new biotechnologies. The project will provide hands-on research training for 6-8 undergraduate students, preparing them for careers in science and technology. Additionally, 2-3 high school teachers will receive laboratory training and professional development through collaboration with Iowa State University's Research Experience for Teachers Program, enabling them to bring cutting-edge scientific knowledge back to their classrooms and inspire the next 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2501985
- **Awardee organization:** Drake University (IA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** CMXGBGR1SAK1
- **PI:** Ryan Sturms
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES, RES IN UNDERGRAD INST-RESEARCH
- **Estimated total:** $166,000
- **Funds obligated:** $166,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2501985

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2501985, RUI: Determining Non-Symbiotic Hemoglobin Function in Plants. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-06 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2501985. Licensed CC0.

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