Copper's role in how our body tissues grow and develop
Function and regulation of copper in mammalian tissue differentiation
This research explores how copper helps our body tissues grow and develop, aiming to find new ways to help people with conditions like Menkes disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11090337 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies need copper for many important functions, including the healthy development of tissues like muscles and nerves. When there isn't enough copper, as seen in a serious genetic condition called Menkes disease, it can lead to severe developmental problems. This project aims to understand exactly how copper helps cells differentiate and form healthy tissues. We are particularly interested in a protein called ATP7A, which helps transport copper, and how it influences cell growth and signaling pathways. By uncovering these details, we hope to pave the way for new therapies for conditions related to copper imbalances.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but could eventually benefit individuals with genetic copper deficiency disorders, such as Menkes disease, or other conditions affecting tissue development.
Not a fit: Patients without conditions related to copper metabolism or tissue differentiation are unlikely to directly benefit from this specific basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments for genetic copper deficiency diseases like Menkes, improving developmental outcomes for affected patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has shown that copper is vital for tissue development, and this project builds upon existing knowledge to explore specific mechanisms and targets.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- University of Cincinnati — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vest, Katherine Elizabeth — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Vest, Katherine Elizabeth
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 below.