£345K grant awarded to advance drug discovery research

Aston University has been awarded a £345,000 BBSRC Network grant to establish IMPALA-NET (Integral Membrane Proteins And Lipid Assemblies Network UK), a UK-wide collaboration aimed at improving drug discovery and testing. Led by Dr Alice Rothnie, the network brings together researchers from Kings College London, Imperial College, Diamond Light Source, the University of Birmingham, and the University of Leeds.

The project focuses on polymer-lipid particles (PLPs), a new technique for extracting cell membrane proteins while preserving their natural structure. This approach could make drug testing more accurate and effective for diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions. By maintaining proteins in a more ‘natural’ state, PLPs increase the likelihood of identifying effective medications.

IMPALA-NET will also foster collaboration between academia and industry, share best practices, and develop the next generation of researchers in the field. 

Dr Rothnie said: 

“We aim to bridge the gap between academia and industry, co-create reproducible PLP approaches, and provide career development opportunities for early career researchers. By sharing both successes and challenges, we can fully exploit PLP technology for membrane protein studies.”

The network is hosted by Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence (AIME) and represents a significant step forward in UK-led drug discovery innovation.

More information online