Investigating how molybdenum cofactor affects metabolism in animals

Genetic analyses of molybdenum cofactor biology

NIH-funded research Sanford Research/usd · NIH-10846690

This study is looking at how a special nutrient called molybdenum cofactor (Moco) helps our bodies work properly, especially for people who might have problems because they don't have enough of it, using tiny worms to learn more about how Moco is made and controlled, which could help find new ways to treat related health issues in humans.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSanford Research/usd NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Sioux Falls, United States)
Project IDNIH-10846690 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of molybdenum cofactor (Moco) in animal metabolism, particularly how deficiencies in Moco can lead to severe metabolic disorders. Using the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, the research employs genetic and biochemical techniques to explore how Moco is synthesized and regulated in the body. The goal is to uncover new mechanisms that maintain Moco levels and to identify genetic pathways that influence Moco-related metabolism, which could provide insights into treating related human conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with known molybdenum cofactor deficiencies or related metabolic disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with metabolic disorders unrelated to molybdenum cofactor or those without genetic predispositions to Moco deficiency may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for rare metabolic disorders caused by Moco deficiency.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of studying Moco biology in C. elegans is novel, similar genetic analyses have shown promise in understanding other metabolic disorders.

Where this research is happening

Sioux Falls, 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 2026-06-13 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.