Understanding how biomolecular condensates organize cellular functions
Official title: Regulation and Function of Biomolecular Condensate
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-10938647 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny clusters of molecules in cells help organize important processes, especially during the early development of tiny worms called C. elegans, to better understand how these clusters work and why they matter for cell function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $396,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM155303-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10938647 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with conditions related to cellular dysfunction or developmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cellular processes or those not involving biochemical interactions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how biomolecular condensates, which are concentrated assemblies of biomolecules, help organize biochemical processes within cells. By studying the interactions and dynamics of these condensates, particularly during the embryonic development of the model organism C. elegans, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that regulate their function. The project will employ advanced techniques to measure and manipulate these interactions in native cells, addressing criticisms regarding the biological significance of condensates. This work could provide insights into how cellular functions are compartmentalized and regulated.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of cellular organization, potentially impacting treatments for diseases related to cellular dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: While the concept of biomolecular condensates is gaining traction, this specific approach to studying their regulation and function in native cells is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Folkmann, Andrew William — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Folkmann, Andrew William
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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.