How cells burst open in lytic cell death and how glycine might block it
Molecular basis of plasma membrane rupture in lytic cell death and its inhibition by cytoprotective agent glycine
This research looks at whether the natural molecule glycine can stop harmful cell bursting that fuels inflammation in people with inflammatory diseases and some cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11179465 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's view, the team is studying proteins on the cell surface that cause cells to rupture during types of lytic cell death (like pyroptosis and necroptosis) that drive inflammation. They use high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy and biochemical tests to see how the protein NINJ1 forms assemblies that punch holes in membranes and why a similar protein, NINJ2, does not. The researchers are also testing how glycine, a simple amino acid, can prevent membrane rupture in their lab models. The goal is to map the molecular steps that lead to damaging inflammation so new protective strategies can be developed.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with inflammatory conditions or cancers where excessive cell lysis and inflammation are believed to worsen disease may be most relevant to the findings from this work.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to lytic cell death or inflammation are unlikely to see direct benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal targets to reduce inflammation caused by cell rupture and point to simple protective approaches that limit tissue damage in inflammatory diseases and some cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Prior research recently identified NINJ1 as a key driver of membrane rupture and glycine has been reported to have cell-protective effects, but detailed structural understanding and the exact inhibitory mechanisms remain novel.
Where this research is happening
Cleveland, United States
- Case Western Reserve University — Cleveland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dai, Xinghong — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Dai, Xinghong
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.