How Mitochondria Work in Health and Disease
Regulation of Mitochondrial Function by Orphan Protein Phosphatases
This project explores how tiny powerhouses in our cells, called mitochondria, are controlled and how their malfunction contributes to common health issues like type 2 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11161188 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our cells rely on mitochondria, often called the cell's powerhouses, to manage energy and metabolism. When these mitochondria don't work correctly, it can lead to many common conditions such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and heart problems. This research aims to understand specific changes within mitochondria, particularly how certain proteins are modified, which might cause these health issues. By uncovering these details, we hope to find new ways to improve mitochondrial function and potentially treat these diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but focuses on understanding the underlying biological mechanisms relevant to individuals with metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and related conditions.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options would not directly benefit from this basic science project, as its goal is to understand disease mechanisms rather than test new therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new therapeutic strategies for a range of metabolic disorders by targeting mitochondrial dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of protein phosphorylation in mitochondrial function has been recognized for specific pathways, the broader exploration of "orphan protein phosphatases" and their widespread impact on mitochondrial proteins is a relatively new and promising area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pagliarini, David J — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Pagliarini, David J
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.