How certain proteins shape development and contribute to disease
Defining multifunctional roles for proteins in development and disease
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING · NIH-11162372
Researchers are using fruit flies and advanced imaging to learn how a protein linked to microcephaly, some cancers, and infertility works so people with these conditions might benefit from better-targeted treatments in the future.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LARAMIE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11162372 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The lab uses the fruit fly Drosophila and powerful genetic tools combined with high-resolution micro-CT and other imaging to trace what proteins do in developing tissues. They focus on the fly protein Asp, whose human counterpart ASPM is tied to microcephaly, cancer, and infertility, to find extra or 'secondary' roles the protein plays. Experiments will look at effects on stem cell behavior, tissue size, tissue architecture, and interactions with signaling pathways like Notch. Results are intended to give clearer cellular explanations that could guide later therapeutic approaches.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with genetic conditions linked to ASPM (for example certain forms of microcephaly, or research-connected cancer or infertility cases) would be the most directly relevant patient group for follow-up studies or future trials.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to ASPM or similar protein dysfunctions are unlikely to see direct benefit from these specific findings in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could clarify how defects in proteins like ASPM cause disease and point to new targets for treatments or diagnostics.
How similar studies have performed: Basic research using Drosophila genetics and high-resolution imaging has previously revealed important gene functions, but applying these methods specifically to uncover ASPM's secondary roles is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
LARAMIE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING — LARAMIE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SCHOBORG, TODD — UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING
- Study coordinator: SCHOBORG, TODD
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.