Investigating how a specific protein may contribute to harmful oxygen molecules in cells
Official title: Probing the potential role of the Rieske protein in superoxide formation in Complex III
Funded at Trinity University · NIH-10874940 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in a specific protein called Rieske affect the production of superoxide, a harmful substance linked to diseases like heart problems and cancer, using yeast to help understand its role and how it might relate to human health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Trinity University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $373,731 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM154241-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10874940 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or suffering from conditions related to high levels of reactive oxygen species, such as heart disease, cancer, or neurodegenerative disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to oxidative stress or those not affected by reactive oxygen species may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the Rieske protein in the formation of superoxide, a reactive oxygen species linked to various diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. Using a yeast model, researchers will create mutations in the Rieske protein to observe how these changes affect superoxide production. The study will utilize confocal microscopy to measure superoxide levels and assess the impact on yeast growth, providing insights into the protein's function and its potential implications for human health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms behind diseases caused by reactive oxygen species, potentially informing new therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of studying the Rieske protein in this context may be novel, previous research has successfully linked reactive oxygen species to various diseases, indicating a promising area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Trinity University
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hunsicker-Wang, Laura — Trinity University
- Study coordinator: Hunsicker-Wang, Laura
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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.