Understanding Centrosomes and Their Link to Diseases
Role of vesicular trafficking proteins in regulating centrosomes
This research aims to understand how tiny cell structures called centrosomes work, which could help us learn more about diseases like cancer and primary microcephaly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | North Carolina Agri & Tech St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Greensboro, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11290682 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies are made of tiny cells, and inside each cell are important structures called centrosomes that help cells divide properly. When centrosomes don't work right or are present in abnormal numbers, it can lead to serious health issues such as certain cancers and a condition called primary microcephaly. We are using a small worm, C. elegans, as a model to explore how specific proteins and cell processes control these centrosomes. By uncovering these basic mechanisms, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of how centrosomes are built and regulated at a molecular level.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation, but future studies building on this knowledge could benefit patients with conditions linked to centrosome dysfunction, such as certain cancers or primary microcephaly.
Not a fit: Patients without conditions related to centrosome dysfunction are unlikely to see direct benefit from this specific basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide fundamental insights into how centrosome problems contribute to diseases, potentially leading to new ways to prevent or treat conditions like cancer and primary microcephaly in the future.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data from previous studies suggest roles for membrane trafficking and endocytic proteins in centrosome-related processes, but the specific mechanisms explored here are largely unknown.
Where this research is happening
Greensboro, United States
- North Carolina Agri & Tech St Univ — Greensboro, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Iyer, Jyoti — North Carolina Agri & Tech St Univ
- Study coordinator: Iyer, Jyoti
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.