Investigating how cell-adhesion receptors communicate and function in the body
Official title: Structural and Functional Studies of Cell-Adhesion Receptors
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11249701 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special proteins on the surface of cells that help them communicate, which is important for our body's systems and can be linked to diseases like cancer; the goal is to understand how these proteins work so we can find new ways to treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $92,904 |
| NIH project number | 3R35GM148412-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11249701 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with cancers, developmental disorders, or brain malformations related to cell-adhesion receptor dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cell-adhesion receptors or those not affected by the diseases being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the structures and functions of specific cell-surface receptors that play a crucial role in cellular communication. These receptors are important for the development of various systems in the body, including the nervous and skeletal systems, and are linked to diseases such as cancer and developmental disorders. The research employs a combination of structural studies, biochemical assays, and protein engineering to explore how these receptors are activated and how their activity can be modulated for therapeutic purposes. By uncovering the mechanisms behind these receptors, the research aims to provide insights that could lead to new treatments for related diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases linked to cell-adhesion receptors, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cell-surface receptors, but the specific focus on aGPCRs and teneurins is relatively novel and underexplored.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Arac-Ozkan, Demet — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Arac-Ozkan, Demet
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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.