How proteins organize themselves within our cells
Sequence determinants of membraneless organelle rheology
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIV OF N.J. · NIH-11141216
This project explores how proteins in our cells come together to form important structures, which could help us understand diseases like neurodegeneration.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIV OF N.J. (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PISCATAWAY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11141216 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our cells contain tiny compartments, called membraneless organelles, that help them perform essential tasks like responding to stress. These compartments are formed when proteins and other molecules gather together, much like oil and water separating. This project aims to discover how the specific makeup of these proteins influences whether these compartments are flexible and liquid-like or stiff and solid-like. Understanding these basic rules is important because when these structures don't form correctly, it can contribute to diseases, including neurodegenerative conditions. Researchers will use advanced techniques to study these protein interactions and develop new tools to measure their properties.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work is not directly recruiting patients but could eventually benefit individuals with neurodegenerative diseases or other conditions caused by abnormal protein organization within cells.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to cellular protein organization and membraneless organelles would likely not see direct benefit from this specific basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal fundamental mechanisms of cell organization, potentially leading to new strategies for treating neurodegenerative and other diseases linked to abnormal protein assembly.
How similar studies have performed: This project aims to uncover fundamental, novel principles of cellular organization, building upon existing knowledge in biophysics and cell biology.
Where this research is happening
PISCATAWAY, UNITED STATES
- RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIV OF N.J. — PISCATAWAY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SCHUSTER, BENJAMIN S — RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIV OF N.J.
- Study coordinator: SCHUSTER, BENJAMIN S
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.