Creating a new model to understand mitochondrial DNA-related diseases
Establishing a Novel Instrumental Model for Elucidating Mitochondrial DNA-Associated Dysfunction and Pathogenicity
This study is exploring a special type of yeast to better understand problems with mitochondrial DNA that can cause various health issues, with the hope of finding new ways to help patients who suffer from these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Iowa State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ames, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11101393 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel eukaryotic model to study mitochondrial DNA dysfunction, which is linked to various human diseases. The team at Iowa State University aims to utilize the yeast species Yarrowia lipolytica, which closely resembles human mitochondrial physiology, to create a comprehensive toolkit for genetic manipulation. By overcoming current limitations in mitochondrial DNA editing, the research seeks to provide new insights into the pathogenicity of mitochondrial disorders. Patients may benefit from advancements in understanding and potentially treating conditions related to mitochondrial dysfunction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with mitochondrial disorders or those at risk for such conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to mitochondrial dysfunction may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for diseases caused by mitochondrial dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: While mitochondrial dysfunction studies have been conducted, this approach using Yarrowia lipolytica and advanced CRISPR techniques is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Ames, United States
- Iowa State University — Ames, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shao, Zengyi — Iowa State University
- Study coordinator: Shao, Zengyi
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.