How cells manage stress from misfolded proteins
Official title: Genetic Regulation of Stress Responses at the Endoplasmic Reticulum
Funded at Western Washington University · NIH-11043203 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cells handle stress from misfolded proteins, focusing on a protein called VIMP, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how our cells keep themselves healthy when faced with challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Western Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bellingham, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $401,429 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM157704-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11043203 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to protein misfolding, such as neurodegenerative diseases or certain metabolic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to protein misfolding or those who do not exhibit cellular stress responses may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how cells respond to stress caused by misfolded proteins, focusing on a specific protein called VIMP that plays a role in the Endoplasmic Reticulum's (ER) ability to manage protein quality. Using the model organism C. elegans, the study will explore the mechanisms of ER-associated degradation (ERAD) to understand how cells balance the removal of harmful proteins while preserving functional ones. The research employs advanced techniques such as CRISPR-Cas modification and fluorescence microscopy to uncover the biochemical roles of VIMP in regulating stress responses. By understanding these processes, the research aims to shed light on how cellular stress impacts overall health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into treating diseases related to protein misfolding, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding protein quality control mechanisms, making this approach promising but still exploring specific roles of VIMP in stress responses.
Where this research is happening
-
Western Washington University
Bellingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dahlberg, Caroline Lund — Western Washington University
- Study coordinator: Dahlberg, Caroline Lund
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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.