How the cell's nucleus talks to the rest of the cell
Structure-Function of Nucleo-Cytoplasmic Communication
Researchers are mapping the detailed protein machines that let the cell nucleus exchange materials and signals with the rest of the cell to help people with diseases like muscular dystrophy, certain heart muscle diseases, and some cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11174293 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project will determine atomic-level structures of the protein complexes that control nucleo-cytoplasmic communication, focusing on nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) and LINC complexes. Researchers will use high-resolution structural methods to see how these machines are built and how they perform different jobs like moving molecules and sensing forces. By separating the different functions of these complexes, the team aims to identify specific sites where drugs or therapies could act. The work is basic but directly tied to human conditions such as Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy, cardiomyopathies, and some cancers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with conditions linked to nuclear envelope or nucleo-cytoplasmic machinery dysfunction (for example Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy, certain cardiomyopathies, or related cancers) would be the most relevant candidates for future related studies or sample donation.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to nuclear envelope or structural cell defects, or those seeking immediate treatment effects, are unlikely to benefit directly from this basic structural research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal precise drug targets and guide development of therapies for diseases linked to nuclear envelope dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous structural studies have resolved parts of nuclear pore and LINC components, so this work builds on partial successes but aims for more complete atomic-resolution structures that remain incomplete.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schwartz, Thomas — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Schwartz, Thomas
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.