Understanding how a key protein helps stem cells stay versatile
Structure and Functionof Nanog in Stem Cell Pluripotency
This project explores how a protein called NANOG helps stem cells maintain their ability to become any cell type, which is important for understanding diseases like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11087704 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have special cells called stem cells that can turn into many different types of cells. A protein named NANOG is crucial for these stem cells to keep their versatile nature, known as pluripotency. We are using advanced techniques to understand the exact structure and function of NANOG, especially how it interacts with other proteins to control which genes are active. By learning more about NANOG's role, we hope to uncover new ways to address conditions where stem cell behavior is disrupted, such as in cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation but aims to benefit patients with conditions related to stem cell dysfunction, including certain cancers.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of stem cell behavior, potentially opening new avenues for therapies in regenerative medicine and cancer treatment.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of human NANOG are challenging and not fully understood, other basic science efforts have successfully used advanced techniques to characterize complex proteins.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ferreon, Josephine Chu — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Ferreon, Josephine Chu
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.