How Zinc Levels Control Cell Growth and Function
Regulatory Roles of Zinc Fluxes in Metalloprotein Occupancy and Cell Cycle Progression
This project explores how changes in zinc levels inside our cells guide the growth and function of cells, which is important for many body processes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11000311 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Zinc is vital for many body functions like brain activity, immune response, and insulin production. We know that the amount of zinc inside our cells changes, and these changes seem to tell cells what to do, especially regarding their growth. This project aims to understand the basic ways zinc works with special proteins to control these cell activities. By learning more about how zinc signals within cells, we hope to better understand diseases that happen when these signals go wrong.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation at this stage.
Not a fit: Patients will not receive direct clinical benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us understand and eventually treat diseases linked to problems with zinc signaling in cells, such as those affecting brain function, immunity, or insulin.
How similar studies have performed: While recent studies suggest zinc's role in cell regulation, this project tests a specific hypothesis about how zinc controls the mammalian cell cycle through receptor-mediated processes.
Where this research is happening
East Lansing, United States
- Michigan State University — East Lansing, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'halloran, Thomas V — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: O'halloran, Thomas V
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.