Understanding how a key protein involved in cell division changes shape and function
Co-Translational Folding of Metamorphic Proteins: Assessing Structure-Function Transitions of the Mitotic Checkpoint Protein MAD2 on the Human Ribosome Surface and in the Presence of Folding Effectors
This study is looking at how a protein called MAD2 helps control cell division, which is important for preventing cancer, by watching how it changes shape while it's being made in cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11134883 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the behavior of the MAD2 protein, which plays a crucial role in regulating cell division. By examining how MAD2 folds and changes structure during its synthesis on the ribosome, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that control its function. The research employs innovative techniques, including a single-ribosome translation assay, to observe these processes in real-time. Understanding these transitions could provide insights into how errors in cell division can lead to cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancers related to cell division dysregulation or those interested in the molecular mechanisms of cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions unrelated to cell division or protein folding may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cancers associated with cell division errors.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding protein folding and its implications in cancer, making this approach both relevant and promising.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yan, Shannon — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Yan, Shannon
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.