Investigating how tight junctions in cells control ion and water movement
Official title: Defining single-channel paracellular (tight junction) conductances using nanotechnology
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-10771236 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help keep the barriers in our body’s cells working properly, which could lead to new ways to treat conditions like colitis by fixing problems with these barriers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $206,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21GM144801-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10771236 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with conditions like colitis or other disorders linked to tight junction dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to epithelial or endothelial barrier function may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of tight junctions in epithelial and endothelial cells, which are crucial for maintaining barriers in the body. By using advanced nanotechnology, the study aims to explore how specific proteins called claudins form channels that regulate the movement of ions and water between cells. The research will involve both laboratory experiments and potential applications in treating conditions like colitis, where these channels may be dysfunctional. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to manipulate these channels for therapeutic purposes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for diseases related to dysfunctional tight junctions, such as inflammatory bowel disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tight junctions and their role in diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Turner, Jerrold R. — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Turner, Jerrold R.
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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.