Mitochondrial shape and function in health and disease

Regulation of mitochondrial morphology and functional versatility

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · NEW YORK UNIVERSITY · NIH-11089565

This work looks at how the shape of mitochondria affects their energy production and cell survival, with implications for people with cancer, heart disease, and other conditions.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorNEW YORK UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11089565 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

From a patient's perspective, researchers are examining the molecular machines (like OPA1 and the MICOS complex) that sculpt the inner structure of mitochondria and keep them working. They will manipulate these proteins in cells and model systems, take detailed images of mitochondrial architecture, and measure energy production, DNA stability, and sensitivity to cell death. By linking specific structural changes to functional problems, the team hopes to explain why mitochondria fail in cancers, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegeneration. The findings are intended to point to new targets for future therapies rather than test treatments in people right now.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This is a laboratory-focused grant that does not recruit patients, though its results are most relevant to people with cancers, cardiovascular disease, mitochondrial disorders, or related conditions.

Not a fit: People whose illnesses are unrelated to mitochondrial dysfunction are unlikely to see a direct short-term benefit from this project.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal new molecular targets to protect or restore mitochondrial function and guide development of therapies for cancer, heart disease, and related disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Prior basic research has shown OPA1 and MICOS affect mitochondrial shape and function, but turning those findings into treatments remains an early and active area of work.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancers, Cardiovascular Diseases

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.