How cells sense nutrients to control growth and survival
Spatial and temporal regulation of nutrient sensing
This study is exploring how cells sense the nutrients they need to grow and survive, focusing on a key protein complex called mTORC1, and it aims to develop new tools to better understand this process, which could eventually help create new treatments for related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11082991 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how cells detect nutrient availability to adjust their growth and survival strategies. It focuses on the mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 1 (mTORC1), which plays a crucial role in regulating cell growth and proliferation in response to nutrients. The researchers will develop advanced biophysical tools to study the dynamics of amino acid sensing, including single molecule FRET and cryo-electron tomography, to visualize the signaling complexes involved. By understanding these processes, the research aims to provide insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to cell growth and proliferation, such as cancer or metabolic disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to nutrient sensing or cell growth may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance cell growth and survival in various medical conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding nutrient sensing mechanisms, but this approach using advanced biophysical tools is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shen, Kuang — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Shen, Kuang
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.