How Cell Polarity Proteins Attach to Cell Membranes
Plasma Membrane Targeting and Retargeting of Polarity Proteins
This work explores how important proteins attach to and move around cell membranes, which is key to how cells are organized and function, especially in conditions like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11117004 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our cells rely on a precise organization, called cell polarity, to function correctly, and this organization is often disrupted in diseases like cancer. This project looks closely at special proteins that help cells maintain their shape and direction by attaching to the cell's outer membrane. We want to understand how these proteins find their correct spots and how they might be affected by stress, like a lack of oxygen, which can happen in tumors. By learning more about these fundamental processes, we hope to uncover new ways to understand and potentially address diseases where cell organization goes wrong.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation but is relevant to individuals affected by various cancers.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments will not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a deeper understanding of how cancer cells lose their normal organization, potentially leading to new strategies for cancer detection or treatment.
How similar studies have performed: The principal investigator's lab has already made discoveries in this area, indicating a foundation of prior success and ongoing progress.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hong, Yang — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Hong, Yang
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.