Understanding how a protein called CLPX controls energy factories in our cells
Dynamic control of mitochondrial function by the protein unfoldase CLPX
This project aims to understand how a key protein called CLPX helps our cells' energy factories, mitochondria, work correctly, which is important for conditions like blood diseases and cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brandeis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Waltham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11101309 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our cells rely on tiny powerhouses called mitochondria to create energy and stay healthy. This project explores a specific protein, CLPX, which acts like a manager, making sure other proteins within mitochondria are working properly. When CLPX doesn't function as it should, it can lead to serious health problems, including certain blood diseases and cancers. By learning how CLPX chooses which proteins to manage and when, we hope to uncover new ways to keep mitochondria healthy and potentially develop new treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but could eventually benefit individuals with mitochondrial diseases, blood disorders, or certain cancers.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of diseases linked to mitochondrial problems and potentially inspire new treatments for conditions like mitochondriopathies and cancers.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of CLPX substrate selection are largely unknown, the importance of CLPX and its partner CLPP in disease is supported by existing research and drugs in clinical trials.
Where this research is happening
Waltham, United States
- Brandeis University — Waltham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kardon, Julia R. — Brandeis University
- Study coordinator: Kardon, Julia R.
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.