Investigating how cholesterol affects Hedgehog protein processing
Sterol Probes of Hedgehog Protein Processing
['FUNDING_R15'] · COLLEGE OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCI & FORESTRY · NIH-10292176
This study is looking at how changes in cholesterol can affect a protein called Hedgehog, which is important for proper development in babies and the health of adult stem cells, and it aims to find out how these changes might help us understand serious birth defects and some cancers.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R15'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | COLLEGE OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCI & FORESTRY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SYRACUSE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10292176 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of cholesterol modifications in Hedgehog protein signaling, which is crucial for embryonic development and adult stem cell regulation. By creating a library of modified sterols, the researchers aim to identify how these modifications influence Hedgehog protein function. The study employs advanced organic synthesis techniques to produce various sterols, which will then be tested in a specialized assay to determine their interactions with the Hedgehog protein. This research could provide insights into the mechanisms behind severe birth defects and certain cancers linked to Hedgehog signaling malfunctions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with congenital abnormalities or cancers related to Hedgehog signaling pathways.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to Hedgehog signaling or those who do not have congenital abnormalities or related cancers may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating congenital abnormalities and cancers associated with Hedgehog signaling.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using modified sterols to study Hedgehog protein processing is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding protein modifications and their implications in disease.
Where this research is happening
SYRACUSE, UNITED STATES
- COLLEGE OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCI & FORESTRY — SYRACUSE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GINER, JOSE L — COLLEGE OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCI & FORESTRY
- Study coordinator: GINER, JOSE L
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 below.