Understanding how a protein affects cell death related to diabetes and cancer

Characterization of TMEM164 as novel multi-pass transmembrane enzyme and its role in ferroptosis

NIH-funded research Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-10884159

This study is looking at how a protein called TMEM164 affects a type of cell death related to diseases like cancer and type 2 diabetes, with the hope of finding new ways to help treat these conditions by understanding how it changes fat metabolism in cells.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionScripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10884159 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a protein called TMEM164 in regulating a specific type of cell death known as ferroptosis, which is linked to diseases like cancer and type 2 diabetes. By studying how TMEM164 influences the metabolism of certain fatty acids in cells, researchers aim to uncover new therapeutic targets that could help treat conditions where ferroptosis is improperly regulated. The approach involves genetic manipulation of cells to observe changes in lipid profiles and cell death responses. This could lead to a better understanding of how to prevent or treat damage caused by these diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with type 2 diabetes or certain types of cancer who may benefit from new therapeutic strategies.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to ferroptosis or those not affected by type 2 diabetes or cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for conditions like type 2 diabetes and cancer by targeting the mechanisms of cell death.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting cell death pathways for therapeutic benefit, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Adult-Onset Diabetes MellitusCancer Model
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.