How Metabolic Molecules Influence Cell Health and Disease
Understanding How Metabolic Cofactors Control Cell Function and Fate
This work explores how tiny metabolic molecules called cofactors guide the way our cells work and develop, especially in conditions like adult-onset diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11090966 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are learning that metabolism does more than just provide energy; it actively controls how our cells behave and what they become. This project focuses on metabolic cofactors, which are often seen as simple helpers in cell processes, but we believe they play a much bigger role. We are looking into how the amount and location of these cofactors, like coenzyme A (CoA) and NAD+, can change cell function in new and unexpected ways. Understanding these fundamental controls could help us better understand diseases where cell function goes wrong.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals with conditions like adult-onset diabetes by improving our understanding of the disease.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by metabolic disorders or adult-onset diabetes may not directly benefit from this specific area of basic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could uncover new ways that our body's metabolism contributes to diseases like adult-onset diabetes, potentially leading to new treatment ideas.
How similar studies have performed: While the idea that metabolism controls cell function is gaining traction, this specific focus on metabolic cofactors as direct regulators is a novel and less explored area.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Divakaruni, Ajit — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Divakaruni, Ajit
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.