How Copper Affects Body Processes and Health
Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Copper-Dependent Nutrient Signaling and Metabolism
This project explores how the essential nutrient copper helps our bodies signal and use nutrients, which is important for health and development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11158823 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Copper is a vital nutrient, much like oxygen or amino acids, that our bodies need to function properly. This work looks at how copper helps cells communicate and process nutrients, which is key for normal growth and preventing disease. We are learning that copper does more than just help certain enzymes; it also directly influences important cell signals that control things like cell growth, fat processing, and how cells recycle their parts. By understanding these new roles for copper, we can better see how changes in copper levels might lead to health problems. This knowledge could help us find new ways to address diseases linked to copper imbalances.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with conditions related to nutrient signaling, metabolism, or diseases where copper imbalances are suspected might find this research relevant.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to copper metabolism or nutrient signaling may not directly benefit from this specific basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of how copper imbalances contribute to disease, potentially opening doors for new treatments or diagnostic tools.
How similar studies have performed: Recent discoveries have shown that copper plays a broader role in cell signaling and protein regulation than previously thought, suggesting this approach builds on emerging successful findings.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brady, Donita C — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Brady, Donita C
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.