Understanding how a protein called cereblon recognizes its targets
Uncovering the substrate recognition mechanisms of the E3 ligase adaptor cereblon
This research aims to understand how a protein called cereblon naturally works in our bodies, which could help us develop new medicines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11082391 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Medicines like thalidomide, lenalidomide, and pomalidomide work by changing how a protein called cereblon identifies and removes other proteins in our cells. While these drugs are effective, we don't fully understand cereblon's natural role in the body or how it normally chooses its targets. This project uses new methods to discover how cereblon recognizes specific signals on proteins, similar to how these drugs make it recognize new targets. By learning more about cereblon's natural functions, we hope to find new ways to develop treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Future patients with conditions that could be treated by drugs targeting the cereblon pathway, such as certain cancers or neurological disorders, might ultimately benefit from this foundational research.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical trial participation will not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the development of new and more targeted drugs that work by influencing cereblon, potentially improving treatments for various conditions.
How similar studies have performed: This project uses a novel approach to uncover cereblon's natural substrate recognition, building on existing knowledge of how drugs interact with this protein.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Harvard University — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Woo, Christina — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Woo, Christina
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.