Understanding how a key protein, S1P, becomes active to control cholesterol in our bodies
Structural and mechanistic basis for the maturation of site-one protease in the secretory pathway
This project aims to understand how a protein called S1P becomes active in our cells, which is important for managing cholesterol levels.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126663 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have a special protein called S1P that helps control how cholesterol is made and used. S1P starts out inactive in one part of the cell and then becomes active in another, like a switch that turns on at the right time and place. This careful control is vital for healthy cholesterol levels. This research will explore how S1P matures and becomes active, especially focusing on a newly found helper protein called SPRING. By learning more about this process, we hope to better understand how our cells manage cholesterol.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational biological research does not directly involve patient participation, but future applications could benefit individuals with cholesterol metabolism disorders or related cellular stress conditions.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical interventions or direct treatment for their conditions would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could uncover new ways to target and control cholesterol levels, potentially leading to new treatments for conditions related to high cholesterol or other cellular signaling issues.
How similar studies have performed: S1P's role in cholesterol metabolism is well-established, but the specific mechanisms of its maturation and the role of newly identified co-factors like SPRING are novel areas of exploration.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kober, Daniel Luke — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Kober, Daniel Luke
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.