How cell surfaces influence the assembly of biomolecular structures
Official title: Cellular surfaces as regulators of biomolecular condensate assembly
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10932850 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of cells, like their outer layers and specific types of RNA, help organize important structures inside the cell that are crucial for its functions, which could help us understand how to better manage diseases like Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $104,070 |
| NIH project number | 5K99GM149757-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10932850 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or related neurodegenerative diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cellular biochemistry or those not diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how cellular surfaces, specifically lipid membranes and long noncoding RNA, affect the assembly and identity of biomolecular condensates, which are essential for cellular functions. The study will explore how these surfaces modify RNA structure to control the formation of distinct layers within these condensates. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to provide insights into the regulation of mRNA translation and retention in cells, which could have implications for various diseases, including neurodegenerative conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating conditions like Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis by enhancing our understanding of cellular processes.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of examining cellular surfaces in this context is novel, related research has shown promise in understanding biomolecular condensates and their roles in cellular function.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Snead, Wilton Thomas — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Snead, Wilton Thomas
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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.