How cell parts talk to each other to handle stress and aging
The role of mito-nuclear communication in the adaptation to mitochondrial dysfunction and stress resistance
This work explores how the tiny powerhouses in our cells, called mitochondria, communicate with the cell's control center to stay healthy, especially as we age or face diseases like diabetes and cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11101374 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our cells rely on a delicate balance between the genetic material in their main control center and the genetic material in their energy-producing parts, called mitochondria. When this balance is disrupted, often due to aging or disease, it can lead to problems with how our cells function and how well our bodies cope with stress. This research aims to understand the specific ways cells respond to these disruptions, activating protective pathways to keep mitochondria working and reduce cellular stress. By uncovering these basic mechanisms, we hope to learn more about how diseases like type 2 diabetes and certain cancers develop and potentially find new ways to help cells stay healthy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: While this foundational laboratory work does not directly involve human participants, individuals interested in the basic biological causes of age-related diseases, type 2 diabetes, or certain cancers may find this research relevant to their condition.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments or direct participation in human trials will not find a direct benefit from this basic science project, which uses a yeast model.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding how cells adapt to mitochondrial stress could lead to new ways to prevent or treat age-related diseases, including type 2 diabetes and certain cancers.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific yeast model is novel, the broader field of mitochondrial biology and stress response pathways has seen significant advancements, providing a strong foundation for this work.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaya, Alaattin — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Kaya, Alaattin
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.