How cells control actin filaments and their internal skeleton
Mechanisms controlling cellular actin dynamics and cytoskeletal crosstalk
This project looks at how cells build, break down, and coordinate actin filaments with other parts of the cell skeleton to better understand processes relevant to diseases like Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brandeis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Waltham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11337460 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use advanced single-molecule TIRF microscopy to watch groups of actin-regulating proteins working together in real time. They will study how actin interacts with microtubules and septins in both yeast and mammalian cells and make targeted genetic changes to test those interactions in living cells. The team will develop precise molecular tools based on these observations and use live imaging to see how those tools change cellular behavior.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This grant does not enroll patients directly; any future patient involvement would likely involve people with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias contributing samples or participating in follow-up translational studies.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate clinical treatment or those without neurodegenerative conditions are unlikely to receive direct benefit from the basic laboratory work supported by this grant.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal molecular mechanisms that contribute to neurodegeneration and point to new targets or strategies for treating Alzheimer's and related disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Single-molecule imaging and cell-based studies have previously revealed new molecular details of actin regulation, but translating those discoveries into therapies is still in early stages.
Where this research is happening
Waltham, United States
- Brandeis University — Waltham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goode, Bruce L — Brandeis University
- Study coordinator: Goode, Bruce L
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.