Understanding a New Way Cells Die
Linker cell death regulation in C. elegans
This research explores a newly discovered way cells die that is different from known processes, aiming to understand its role in human health and disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rockefeller University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11144352 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies constantly make and remove cells, and understanding how cells die is crucial for health. This project focuses on a recently found cell death process that doesn't involve the usual 'apoptosis' pathway. Researchers are using a tiny worm, C. elegans, to uncover the basic steps of this new cell death program. The goal is to see if this process, which has similar features in humans, plays a part in conditions like nerve degeneration.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: While this is basic science, patients with conditions involving abnormal cell death, particularly neurodegenerative diseases like polyglutamine disorders, might eventually benefit from this foundational knowledge.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical trial participation would not find direct benefit from this foundational laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets for treatments for diseases where cell death goes wrong, such as certain neurodegenerative conditions.
How similar studies have performed: This research explores a novel cell death pathway, distinct from previously studied mechanisms like apoptosis or necrosis, making it a new area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Rockefeller University — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shaham, Shai — Rockefeller University
- Study coordinator: Shaham, Shai
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.