How cells control active vitamin A (retinoic acid) levels
Mechanisms of Regulation of Retinoic Acid Homeostasis
This work looks at how cells and specific proteins regulate the active form of vitamin A so people with imbalances that affect reproduction, metabolism, immunity, or skin can be better understood.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11129180 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From your perspective, the team combines lab experiments with samples from people to trace how dietary vitamin A is turned into the active molecule all‑trans‑retinoic acid (atRA) inside cells. They measure how cellular lipids, two binding proteins (CRABP1 and CRABP2), and CYP26 enzymes change atRA amounts and where atRA sits inside cells. The researchers will build a quantitative model to explain how pulses and gradients of atRA are formed and how those changes affect gene signaling important for reproduction, metabolism, immune responses, and epithelial health. The approach mixes biochemical testing, analysis of clinical samples, and computer modeling to link basic mechanisms to human health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with conditions thought to involve abnormal vitamin A or retinoic acid levels, or those willing to provide clinical samples, would be the most relevant candidates to participate.
Not a fit: Individuals without vitamin A–related concerns or those seeking immediate treatment are unlikely to benefit directly because much of the work is basic and model-building.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could enable better tests or therapies that correct harmful excesses or shortages of active vitamin A in people.
How similar studies have performed: Decades of biochemical and clinical work have revealed roles for CRABPs and CYP26 enzymes, but integrating lipid partitioning with quantitative modeling of atRA dynamics is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Isoherranen, Nina — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Isoherranen, Nina
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.