Investigating how cell-adhesion receptors work and their role in diseases
Official title: Structural and Functional Studies of Cell-Adhesion Receptors
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11007168 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special proteins on cell surfaces that help cells communicate, which are important for the development of the nervous system, bones, and heart, to find out how they work and how they might be used to treat diseases like cancer and developmental disorders.
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) | $434,605 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM148412-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11007168 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by conditions such as cancer, developmental disorders, or brain malformations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cell-adhesion receptor dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the structure and function of specific cell-surface receptors that are crucial for cellular communication. These receptors, known as adhesion G Protein-Coupled Receptors and teneurins, play significant roles in the development of the nervous system, skeletal system, and heart. The study employs a combination of structural analysis, biochemical assays, and protein engineering to uncover how these receptors are activated and how they can be targeted for therapeutic purposes. By exploring these mechanisms, the research aims to provide insights into their involvement in diseases such as cancer and developmental disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating various diseases linked to cell-adhesion receptors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding similar cell-surface receptors, indicating potential for success in this area.
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
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.