Investigating how autophagy affects intestinal cell function and disease

Autophagy and LC3-associated phagocytosis in intestinal epithelial cells

NIH-funded research University of Arizona · NIH-11090424

This study is looking at how certain processes in the cells lining your intestines help keep your gut healthy and how problems with these processes might lead to conditions like Crohn's disease, with the hope of finding new ways to help manage these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Arizona NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tucson, United States)
Project IDNIH-11090424 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of autophagy and LC3-associated phagocytosis in intestinal epithelial cells, which are crucial for maintaining the barrier between the body and the external environment. The study examines how disruptions in these processes can lead to conditions like Crohn's disease and inflammatory bowel disease. By exploring the molecular mechanisms involved, particularly the role of the protein MAMDC4, the research aims to uncover how these pathways contribute to intestinal health and disease. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing these conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Crohn's disease or other forms of inflammatory bowel disease.

Not a fit: Patients without any form of inflammatory bowel disease or related gastrointestinal disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for inflammatory bowel diseases, improving the quality of life for affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of autophagy in intestinal diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Tucson, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.