Controlling how certain receptors in cells affect health and disease
Official title: Optical control of G protein-coupled receptor function
Funded at Saint Louis University · NIH-11012131 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to understand and control important proteins in our cells that are involved in diseases like heart and brain conditions, using light to see how they work, which could help improve health for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Saint Louis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | June 5, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $416,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM156270-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012131 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by conditions related to GPCR dysfunction, such as cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, or addiction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to GPCR signaling or those not affected by the diseases being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative tools to control and map the function of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which play a crucial role in various diseases, including cardiovascular and neurological disorders. By using optical methods, the researchers aim to manipulate these receptors in living cells and tissues, allowing for a better understanding of their signaling mechanisms. The study also explores how environmental light influences cell signaling and behavior, potentially linking light exposure to health outcomes. Patients may benefit from insights gained about GPCRs and their roles in disease processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for a variety of diseases by improving our understanding of GPCR function.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in manipulating GPCRs, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karunarathne, Welivitiya Kankanamlage Ajith — Saint Louis University
- Study coordinator: Karunarathne, Welivitiya Kankanamlage Ajith
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.