Investigating how tubulin methylation affects cell function in worms
Official title: Exploring the functional role of tubulin methylation and its regulation by mes-4/NSD in C. elegans
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10906657 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny chemical changes to a protein called tubulin affect the way nerve cells work and grow in a small worm, which could help us understand more about conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31GM151846-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10906657 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly those related to autism.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to neurodevelopmental disorders or those not affected by cytoskeletal dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of tubulin methylation, a chemical modification of proteins that make up the microtubule cytoskeleton, in the model organism C. elegans. The study focuses on understanding how specific methylation marks on tubulin influence the organization and function of neuronal cells. By using genetic techniques to create mutations that prevent methylation, researchers aim to uncover the consequences of these changes on cell behavior and structure. This work could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders and potential new therapeutic targets.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on tubulin methylation in relation to neurodevelopmental disorders is relatively novel, similar research on post-translational modifications has shown promising results in understanding cellular functions.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pietryk, Edward — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Pietryk, Edward
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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.