How a protein helps control mitochondrial function
Official title: Dynamic control of mitochondrial function by the protein unfoldase CLPX
Funded at Brandeis University · NIH-10894891 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called CLPX to see how it helps our cells' powerhouses, the mitochondria, work better, which could help us understand more about diseases like mitochondrial disorders and cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brandeis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Waltham, United States) |
| Project start | August 10, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $315,652 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM151332-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10894891 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with mitochondrial disorders or specific cancers linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with unrelated conditions or those not affected by mitochondrial dysfunction are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the protein unfoldase CLPX in regulating mitochondrial function, which is essential for cell growth and development. By studying how CLPX interacts with other proteins and substrates, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow mitochondria to adapt to cellular needs. The approach includes proteomic studies to identify the substrates of CLPX and how it influences critical processes like heme biosynthesis. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to insights into mitochondrial diseases and cancer progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for mitochondrial diseases and certain cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting mitochondrial proteins for therapeutic purposes, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Brandeis University
Waltham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kardon, Julia R. — Brandeis University
- Study coordinator: Kardon, Julia R.
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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.