How ZNG1 helps the body fight infection
The role of the ZNG1 metallochaperone in the host response to infection
Researchers are looking at whether ZNG1, a protein that moves zinc into other proteins, helps the body fight infections and problems linked to zinc deficiency.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11120883 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will examine how ZNG1 delivers zinc to specific partner proteins using laboratory biochemical tests, structural studies, and animal models. They will study identified partner proteins (like Metap1 and Zfhx3) to see how zinc delivery changes their function. The team will connect those molecular findings to how the immune system responds to infection and to processes relevant to cancer. Results could point to ways to correct zinc-handling problems that worsen infections or cancer outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with known zinc deficiency, repeated or severe infections, or cancers related to zinc biology may be especially interested in following this work or participating in future related studies.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to zinc biology or immune response are unlikely to see direct benefits from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new therapies or strategies to restore proper zinc use in cells and improve immune defenses and cancer-related outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: This builds on a recent discovery of ZNG1 as the first zinc metallochaperone, so the molecular approach is novel although zinc supplementation has shown benefits in some clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Skaar, Eric P — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Skaar, Eric P
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.