How cells survive extreme stress
Stress tolerant annual killifish: a new model for the cellular stress response
This research looks at a special fish that can survive without oxygen to learn how cells protect themselves from extreme stress.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. Olaf College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Northfield, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11369720 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our cells face stress every day, and sometimes extreme stress like a lack of oxygen can cause serious damage, as seen in conditions like stroke or heart attack. This project uses a unique fish, the annual killifish, which naturally tolerates harsh conditions, including long periods without oxygen, to understand how its cells cope. By studying this fish's cells, we hope to uncover the fundamental ways cells regulate their genes and proteins to survive stress. This knowledge could eventually lead to new ways to protect human cells from damage caused by severe stress.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational biological research does not involve direct patient participation.
Not a fit: Patients will not receive direct medical benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide fundamental insights into how cells survive extreme stress, potentially leading to new strategies for protecting human tissues during conditions like stroke or heart attack.
How similar studies have performed: This project takes an innovative approach by developing a naturally stress-tolerant fish as a new model, building on existing knowledge of cellular stress responses.
Where this research is happening
Northfield, United States
- St. Olaf College — Northfield, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Riggs, Claire L — St. Olaf College
- Study coordinator: Riggs, Claire L
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.