How yeast cells clean up their internal waste
Genetics of secretion in yeast
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11125839
This project explores how yeast cells remove damaged parts of their internal network, called the endoplasmic reticulum, which helps us understand similar processes in human cells.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11125839 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our cells have a natural cleaning process called autophagy, which removes damaged components like the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). This project looks at how yeast cells use a protein called actin to move parts of the ER so they can be broken down and recycled. We are testing if removing certain connections between the ER and the cell's outer membrane can bypass the need for actin in this cleaning process. By understanding this fundamental process in yeast, we hope to uncover basic mechanisms that are also at work in human cells, with future plans to extend this work to human cell lines.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients, but future studies building on this knowledge might seek individuals with conditions related to cellular waste removal.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options would not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding how cells clean themselves could eventually lead to new ways to address diseases where this process is faulty, such as neurodegenerative conditions or certain cancers.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific bypass mechanism is being tested, the general understanding of autophagy and actin's role in cellular processes is well-established across many organisms.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: NOVICK, PETER JAY — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: NOVICK, PETER JAY
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.