Exploring how receptor tyrosine kinases work in cell signaling
Official title: Understanding general principles in receptor tyrosine kinase signaling through structural and functional studies
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11011419 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins on the surface of cells work and send signals when they interact with other molecules, which could help us create better treatments for diseases caused by problems with these proteins.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $574,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM156386-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011419 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to receptor tyrosine kinase dysfunction, such as certain cancers or metabolic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to receptor tyrosine kinases or those not affected by cellular signaling pathways may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), important proteins on cell surfaces, are activated and how they communicate signals within cells. Using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, the team aims to uncover the structural changes that occur when these receptors bind to their ligands. By understanding these processes, the research seeks to clarify how different RTKs can trigger various cellular responses, which is crucial for developing targeted therapies for diseases linked to RTK dysfunction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for diseases associated with receptor tyrosine kinases, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding RTK signaling, but this specific approach using cryo-electron microscopy is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bai, Xiaochen — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Bai, Xiaochen
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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.