How a mitochondrial enzyme (NADK2) helps cells grow
Revealing the essential functions of mitochondrial NADPH and NADK2 for cell growth and proliferation
This research looks at how the mitochondrial enzyme NADK2 and its control of NADPH help cancer cells and other fast-growing cells manage energy and stress.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11169752 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From my point of view, the team will study cells in the lab to change NADK2 activity and watch how that affects cell growth, building blocks, and oxidative stress. They will measure mitochondrial NADPH levels, reactive oxygen species, and how cells proliferate when NADK2 is lowered or boosted. The work uses cellular and molecular experiments and may include models that help link lab findings to human diseases such as cancer and rare NADK2-related disorders. Findings will be used to pinpoint how mitochondrial redox balance supports growth and to suggest possible targets for future treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers driven by rapid cell proliferation or individuals known to have NADK2 mutations would be the most relevant candidates for future clinical or sample-donation opportunities.
Not a fit: Patients whose illnesses are unrelated to mitochondrial metabolism or who need immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to benefit directly from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets for cancer treatments and explain how NADK2 mutations contribute to human neurological and developmental disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Related studies showed cytosolic NADK is boosted by the PI3K–Akt pathway to support growth, but the role of mitochondrial NADK2 is less explored and this work is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hoxhaj, Gerta N/a — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Hoxhaj, Gerta N/a
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.