How cells take in important signals and nutrients
Molecular mechanisms of endocytic initiation and cargo selection
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-11158814
This research explores the early steps of how cells bring in materials from their outside environment, a process vital for cell health and linked to conditions like cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11158814 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our cells constantly take in signals and nutrients from their surroundings through a process called clathrin-mediated endocytosis. While we know a lot about the later stages of this process, the very first steps, including how cells decide what to bring in, are still a mystery. This project focuses on a key protein complex called AP2, which acts like a gatekeeper, helping cells choose which materials to internalize. By understanding how AP2 works and how it's regulated, we hope to uncover fundamental cellular mechanisms that are crucial for normal cell function and can go awry in diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation but aims to benefit patients in the future by uncovering basic biological mechanisms relevant to human diseases.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from participating in this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of cell communication, potentially revealing new targets for treatments for diseases where this process is disrupted, such as cancers.
How similar studies have performed: While the later stages of this cellular process are well-understood, the earliest steps of how cells initiate this uptake and select cargo are largely novel and poorly understood.
Where this research is happening
CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL — CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BAKER, RICHARD WAYNE — UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL
- Study coordinator: BAKER, RICHARD WAYNE
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.
Conditions: Cancers