Investigating a protein that helps clear damaged mitochondria
Official title: Identification of a Putative Mitochondrial Solute Carrier that Regulates Mitophagy
Funded at Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-10823888 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Vps13D helps remove damaged parts of cells, which is important for keeping our cells healthy, and it could provide helpful information for people with movement disorders related to problems with their cell's energy factories, the mitochondria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $33,758 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS134242-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10823888 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with movement disorders that may be associated with mitochondrial dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-movement-related disorders or those without mitochondrial dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific protein, Vps13D, regulates the process of mitophagy, which is the removal of damaged mitochondria from cells. By studying the interactions of Vps13D with other proteins, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that maintain mitochondrial health, which is crucial for overall cell function. The study utilizes advanced techniques, including RNA interference and genetic mutations, to explore the role of another protein, Mtch, in this process. Patients may benefit from insights gained about mitochondrial dysfunction related to movement disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating movement disorders linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial clearance mechanisms, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
Worcester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Restrepo, Lucas John — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Restrepo, Lucas John
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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.