How cells build healthy mitochondria and remove faulty parts

Endoplasmic reticulum-assisted mitochondrial precursor biogenesis and quality control

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11115758

This research looks at how two parts of our cells, the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria, work together to make sure mitochondria are built correctly and faulty proteins are removed.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11115758 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This project explores the fascinating partnership between two key parts of our cells: the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria. Mitochondria are like the powerhouses of our cells, creating the energy we need to function. The ER helps ensure that the building blocks for mitochondria are correctly made and that any damaged or misplaced proteins are quickly removed. By understanding this intricate process, we can learn more about how our cells stay healthy and what might go wrong in certain diseases. This basic knowledge is crucial for future medical advancements.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This is a basic science project primarily using yeast models, so it does not directly involve patient participation at this stage.

Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments or direct participation in human trials would not find direct benefit from this foundational laboratory research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this basic science work could deepen our understanding of fundamental cell processes, which is essential for developing future treatments for diseases linked to mitochondrial dysfunction or protein quality control issues.

How similar studies have performed: The description notes that roles for the ER in mitochondrial biogenesis and degradation have begun to emerge over the past decade, suggesting this is a relatively new and evolving area of biology.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.