How the NF2/Merlin protein controls cell growth linked to nerve tumors
Function of NF2/Merlin in regulation of the Hippo/Salvador/Warts growth control pathway
Researchers are looking at how the Merlin protein controls cell growth that leads to nerve tumors in people with Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2).
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11162344 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project maps how Merlin and its partner proteins assemble at the cell cortex to control growth through the Hippo signaling pathway. The team uses fruit flies and mammalian lab systems to follow protein interactions and to see how the complex is turned off by an E3-ligase that degrades a partner called Kibra. By identifying the proteins and steps that modify Merlin activity, researchers hope to find genes that change NF2 severity and molecular targets for new therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), especially those with vestibular schwannomas, are the patient group most directly relevant to this work.
Not a fit: Patients without NF2 or tumors not driven by Hippo pathway alterations are unlikely to see direct benefit from this project in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal new targets to prevent or slow tumor growth in people with NF2.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies in fruit flies and mammalian cells have shown Merlin acts through the Hippo pathway, but the detailed molecular organization and therapeutic targets are still being worked out.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fehon, Richard G — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Fehon, Richard G
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.