How copper controls muscle and nerve development
Function and regulation of copper in mammalian tissue differentiation
Learning how copper and the ATP7A protein help muscles and nerves develop and stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11394930 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are using laboratory models to study how copper and the ATP7A transporter guide the steps by which muscle and neuronal cells mature. They will examine gene and RNA regulation, copper distribution to key proteins, and how copper affects signaling pathways like TGF-β that can block differentiation. The work uses cell-based experiments and molecular analyses informed by prior findings in mammalian systems and genetic copper-deficiency disorders. Results aim to clarify which copper-dependent targets are most important during tissue development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People or families affected by inherited copper-deficiency conditions (for example, Menkes disease) or those willing to donate samples for research on copper-related developmental disorders would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: Because this is basic laboratory research rather than a treatment trial, patients seeking immediate clinical benefit are unlikely to gain direct therapeutic effects from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new targets or strategies to treat inherited copper deficiency disorders such as Menkes disease and improve understanding of developmental muscle and nerve problems.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies and clinical observations (including Menkes disease) show copper and ATP7A are important for development, but the specific molecular targets and regulatory mechanisms remain largely unresolved.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- University of Cincinnati — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vest, Katherine Elizabeth — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Vest, Katherine Elizabeth
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.