How cells' internal scaffolding proteins affect development, brain disorders, and cancer
Defining microtubule cytoskeleton regulatory pathways in development and disease
This work looks at how proteins that shape cells' internal scaffolding change nerve development, neurodegeneration, and cancer and could point to new treatments for people with those conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11162242 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are examining microtubules — the cell's internal scaffolding — and the proteins (MAPs) that bind to them using lab-grown cells and biochemical tests. They will track how different MAPs control tubulin modifications and affect molecular motors that move cargo inside cells, and how kinases such as DYRK1A alter MAP behavior. The team uses imaging, binding and biochemical assays, and molecular manipulation to see how these changes alter cell architecture and transport in contexts tied to development and disease. Results may identify molecular steps that could be targeted in future diagnostic or therapeutic efforts for certain brain disorders and cancers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with neurodevelopmental conditions, progressive neurodegenerative diseases, or cancers linked to cytoskeletal dysfunction would be the most relevant candidates for future studies or for donating samples.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to microtubule or MAP dysfunction, or those needing immediate clinical interventions, are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reveal new molecular targets that lead to better diagnostics or treatments for some neurodevelopmental disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have shown that MAPs and kinases influence microtubules and intracellular transport, but turning these findings into patient treatments is still at an early, preclinical stage.
Where this research is happening
Davis, United States
- University of California at Davis — Davis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ori-Mckenney, Kassandra Marie — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Ori-Mckenney, Kassandra Marie
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.