How proteins in our cell membranes work and contribute to diseases like cancer

Molecular mechanism of regulation and activation of membrane proteins in native membrane milieu

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11117162

This project aims to understand how important proteins in our cell membranes are organized and activated, which could help us learn more about diseases like cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11117162 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Our cells are surrounded by membranes that contain many important proteins, which are organized into tiny areas called nanodomains. These nanodomains help control how cells communicate and function, and when they don't work correctly, it can lead to diseases like cancer, nerve disorders, and immune problems. This research is developing new ways to look closely at these membrane proteins in their natural environment. By using a special technique to create 'native nanodiscs,' we can better understand how these proteins are organized and how they become active.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Patients with conditions like cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, or immune disorders could eventually benefit from the knowledge gained from this fundamental research.

Not a fit: Patients without conditions related to membrane protein dysfunction would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide fundamental insights into how diseases like cancer develop, potentially leading to new strategies for diagnosis and treatment.

How similar studies have performed: This project aims to develop novel experimental approaches for studying membrane proteins in their native environment, addressing a current scarcity of such methods.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancer GenesCancer-Promoting GeneCancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.