Understanding how ankyrin-1 affects red blood cell shape and stability
Official title: Architecture, dynamics and regulation of erythrocyte ankyrin-1 complexes
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10909016 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called ankyrin-1 helps keep red blood cells strong and healthy, which could help us understand certain inherited blood conditions like hereditary spherocytosis, and it’s for anyone interested in learning more about red blood cell disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | August 20, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $564,008 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL168178-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909016 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with hereditary anemias, especially those with hereditary spherocytosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-hereditary forms of anemia or those without any erythrocyte membrane disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of ankyrin-1 in maintaining the structure and mechanical properties of red blood cells. By examining how ankyrin-1 clusters important membrane proteins and connects them to the cell's cytoskeleton, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind certain hereditary anemias, particularly hereditary spherocytosis. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques like cryoelectron microscopy to visualize these complexes in detail, which could lead to a better understanding of red blood cell disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients with hereditary anemias by providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of these conditions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms of ankyrin-1 have not been extensively studied, related research on membrane protein complexes has shown promise in understanding red blood cell disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clarke, Oliver Biggs — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Clarke, Oliver Biggs
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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.