Genetic clues to how molybdenum cofactor supports life
Official title: Genetic analyses of molybdenum cofactor biology
Funded at Sanford Research/usd · NIH-11361147 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Aiming to understand how molybdenum cofactor keeps essential body chemistry running, using a worm model to uncover pathways that could inform human metabolic diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sanford Research/usd NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Sioux Falls, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $415,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM146871-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11361147 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not applicable for this grant as described (basic science in a worm model).
✕Less likely to help
No direct patient participation is involved in this basic science project.
What this research studies
Scientists will study how molybdenum cofactor (Moco) works in animals by using C. elegans and cutting-edge genetics, biochemistry, and cell biology. They will map the network of proteins that maintain Moco balance and examine genetic pathways that control Moco-related metabolism. The study builds on findings that dietary Moco can be used by the worm, suggesting new ways Moco moves through an organism. This work could reveal targets for treating conditions caused by Moco deficiency in people.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new insights and potential strategies to prevent or treat human Moco-related metabolic disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work shows Moco biology can be studied in model organisms and inform human health, with progress in understanding Moco transport pathways.
Where this research is happening
-
Sanford Research/usd
Sioux Falls, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Warnhoff, Kurt — Sanford Research/usd
- Study coordinator: Warnhoff, Kurt
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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.