Investigating how a specific protein helps plants sense amino acids for growth regulation

A tRNA synthetase is an amino acid sensor for TOR in plants

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-11099415

This study is looking at how a special protein in plants helps them grow by sensing nutrients, and what we learn could help us find new ways to treat diseases in people that are related to similar processes.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11099415 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of a protein called aminoacyl tRNA synthetase (aaRS) in plants, which acts as a sensor for amino acids that influence growth through a signaling pathway known as TOR. By studying how this protein interacts with nutrient availability, the research aims to understand its impact on plant metabolism and growth. The approach combines various scientific methods, including biochemical assays and genetic analysis, to uncover the mechanisms behind this process. Insights gained could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases linked to TOR dysregulation in humans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals affected by cancers or metabolic disorders linked to TOR dysregulation.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to TOR signaling or those not affected by metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel treatments for diseases such as cancer and metabolic disorders by targeting the TOR signaling pathway.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting the TOR pathway for therapeutic interventions, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

MADISON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancers

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.