Investigating how caveolins shape cell membranes and their role in health.
Official title: Structure and Function of Non-Conventional Caveolins
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11013377 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special proteins called caveolins that help create tiny pockets in our cells, and it's for anyone interested in how these proteins affect our metabolism and heart health, as well as why some of them might not work properly in certain diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $643,934 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL168258-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013377 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with metabolic or cardiovascular conditions that may be linked to caveolin dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any metabolic or cardiovascular issues are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on caveolins, unique proteins that play a crucial role in forming caveolae, which are small invaginations in cell membranes. By using advanced imaging techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, the study aims to uncover the structure of caveolin-1, a key protein involved in caveolae formation. Understanding how caveolins function can help clarify their impact on various cellular processes, including metabolism and cardiovascular health. The research will also explore why some caveolins cannot form caveolae, which could have implications for diseases linked to these proteins.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, potentially guiding the development of targeted therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding caveolin functions, but this specific approach to studying non-conventional caveolins is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kenworthy, Anne K — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Kenworthy, Anne K
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.