How COMMD proteins control copper balance in the body
Regulation of Nutrient Homeostasis by COMMD proteins
Researchers are learning how COMMD proteins help cells move and remove copper, which could help people with copper-buildup conditions like Wilson's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11319505 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses laboratory experiments in cells and animal models to follow how copper-transporting proteins (ATP7A and ATP7B) move inside cells. The team studies the COMMD/CCC protein complex that helps recycle these transporters through the cell's endosomal system, with a focus on liver processes that remove copper. By mapping these pathways, researchers hope to understand why copper builds up in diseases like Wilson's disease and in COMMD1-related copper toxicosis. The work combines molecular biology, imaging, and animal studies to reveal the cellular steps that control whole-body copper balance.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Wilson's disease, unexplained copper-overload conditions, or known genetic changes affecting copper handling (and who can provide samples or participate if recruitment occurs) would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients without copper-related disorders or those seeking immediate treatment are unlikely to receive direct clinical benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify new molecular targets or strategies to prevent or treat copper accumulation in Wilson's disease and related disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous cell and animal studies have linked COMMD1 and the CCC complex to copper handling, but translating those findings into human therapies remains largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burstein, Ezra — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Burstein, Ezra
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.