How cells decide to grow or survive based on their energy signals
Metabolic signals regulating cell growth versus survival
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11090664
This research explores how cells use key energy signals, called acetyl-CoA and SAM, to make important decisions about whether to grow or to focus on survival.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DALLAS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11090664 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our cells constantly receive signals about their energy and nutrition, and two crucial signals are acetyl-CoA and SAM, which act like metabolic currencies. This project aims to understand the detailed ways these signals help cells decide between growing and staying alive, especially when conditions change. We will use advanced lab techniques like genetics, cell biology, and biochemistry to discover how these signals are organized inside cells and how they influence fundamental biological processes. The insights gained from this work could help us better understand aging and various diseases that come with age.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational laboratory research does not directly involve patient participation, but future patients with age-related diseases could ultimately benefit from its findings.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or those not affected by age-related conditions may not find direct benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide a deeper understanding of cellular processes, potentially leading to new ways to address aging and age-related diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team has already shown that acetyl-CoA and SAM are important signals for cellular metabolic and nutritional states, building on existing knowledge in the field.
Where this research is happening
DALLAS, UNITED STATES
- UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER — DALLAS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TU, BENJAMIN P — UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: TU, BENJAMIN P
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.