Understanding how a specific protein affects cell junctions in epithelial tissues
Official title: Regulation of epithelial junctions stability and turnover by the RhoG exchange factor SGEF
Funded at University of Toledo · NIH-10974904 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called SGEF helps keep the connections between cells strong and stable, which is important for the health of tissues in our body, and it could help us understand more about conditions that affect these connections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Toledo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Toledo, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $458,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM155874-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10974904 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to epithelial cell dysfunction, including certain types of cancer or congenital abnormalities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to epithelial cell adhesion or stability may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called SGEF in maintaining the stability and turnover of cell junctions in epithelial cells. Epithelial cells are crucial for forming barriers in the body, and this study aims to uncover how SGEF interacts with other proteins to regulate these junctions. By using advanced techniques, the researchers will explore the molecular mechanisms behind cell adhesion and polarity, which are vital for proper tissue function. The findings could lead to better understanding of various conditions related to cell adhesion and tissue integrity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into treating conditions related to epithelial dysfunction, such as certain cancers and birth defects.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding cell junctions and their regulation, making this approach promising but still focused on a specific protein interaction.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Toledo
Toledo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Garcia-Mata, Rafael — University of Toledo
- Study coordinator: Garcia-Mata, Rafael
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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.