# Advancing Single Molecule Methods to Understand Translation Regulation in Live Cells

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Johns Hopkins University (MD) · $856,135

## Abstract

Cells use one third of their energy to produce proteins. Thus, cells require to precisely control protein production. Current knowledge of protein production regulation is based on mixing the contents of millions of cells to measure the average protein production rates. However, we now know that individual cells can behave differently than population averages. This research program will develop and apply new methods that allow measuring protein production in individual cells to determine when and where the regulatory events happen. These methods are based on measuring the speed of individual ribosomes (the protein production machines of the cell) in live cells. Evaluating thousands of ribosomes allows discerning when and how protein production, as well as other key functions of ribosomes such as UV or high temperature responses. More broadly, the research team will introduce high school students to the use of microscopy to study cellular and molecular biology processes. It will also develop courses to provide the basic skills needed for imaging of live cells, and how to use these skills to further our understanding of the fundamental principles of cellular and molecular biology. 
Live-cell biosensors have revolutionized our understanding of signaling and cell cycle regulation by enabling biochemical characterization of individual cells as they respond to environmental perturbation. However, many important biochemical parameters remain inaccessible through live single-cell ap

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2519259
- **Awardee organization:** Johns Hopkins University (MD)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** FTMTDMBR29C7
- **PI:** Sergi Regot
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** NANOSCALE BIO CORE
- **Estimated total:** $856,135
- **Funds obligated:** $856,135
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2029

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2519259

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2519259, Advancing Single Molecule Methods to Understand Translation Regulation in Live Cells. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2519259. Licensed CC0.

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