Exploring how nuclear genes affect mitochondrial function and related diseases
Official title: Understanding nuclear compensation to mitochondrial variation, dysfunction, and disease in a new evolutionary mutant model
Funded at University of Kansas Lawrence · NIH-11057267 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in our genes can affect the energy production in our cells and lead to diseases like Alzheimer's, with the hope of finding better, personalized treatments for patients based on their unique genetic profiles.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Lawrence NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lawrence, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $399,766 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG087430-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11057267 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with genetic predispositions to mitochondrial dysfunction or related diseases, such as Alzheimer's.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to mitochondrial dysfunction or those without genetic variations affecting mitochondrial function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between nuclear and mitochondrial genomes, focusing on how variations in these genes can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and associated diseases. By using a new evolutionary mutant model, the study aims to understand how genetic differences impact cellular processes such as energy production and cell death. The research will analyze how these dynamics affect health outcomes, particularly in conditions like Alzheimer's disease and other degenerative disorders. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more personalized treatment approaches based on their genetic makeup.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients with mitochondrial dysfunction-related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial dynamics and their implications for diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kansas Lawrence
Lawrence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Beck, Emily a — University of Kansas Lawrence
- Study coordinator: Beck, Emily a
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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.