How cells build bundled actin fibers using formin proteins
Molecular mechanisms of bundled actin structure assembly by formins
This work looks at how formin proteins help cells make bundled actin fibers that matter for cell movement and some diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11232331 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers study proteins called formins that control how actin filaments are formed and organized into bundled structures inside cells. They use purified proteins and biophysical experiments, along with live-cell imaging and cell biology models, to compare how different formin types make binding sites for other actin regulators. The team examines effects of specific formin behaviors on network dynamics and links those molecular differences to cellular architecture, using yeast and mammalian cell systems as models.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with conditions linked to formin mutations—for example some forms of cardiomyopathy, kidney disease, or cancers—would be most relevant to follow this research or donate samples.
Not a fit: Patients expecting immediate new treatments or those with conditions unrelated to actin/formin biology are unlikely to see direct short-term benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could clarify how mutations in formin genes alter cell architecture and point to new molecular targets for diseases like certain cancers and cardiomyopathies.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have shown formins shape actin filaments, but applying those findings to explain disease mechanisms and isoform-specific effects remains an active and developing area.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Courtemanche, Naomi — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Courtemanche, Naomi
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.