Understanding how cadherin molecules assemble in cell junctions
Official title: Basis and Function of Lateral Assembly of Cadherin Molecules in Adhesive Junctions of Humans and Model Organisms
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10932142 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special proteins called cadherins help cells stick together, which is really important for keeping our tissues healthy, and it aims to find out how problems with these proteins might lead to diseases, so we can develop better treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $385,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150961-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10932142 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune diseases that affect cell adhesion or those with genetic mutations impacting cadherin function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cell adhesion or those without autoimmune diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the structure and function of cadherin molecules, which are essential for forming adhesive junctions between cells. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to uncover how these molecules interact and assemble into complex structures that are crucial for maintaining tissue integrity. The research will explore both human tissues and model organisms to gain insights into the mechanisms that underlie cell adhesion and the impact of mutations or autoimmune diseases on these processes. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how these junctions work, potentially leading to new treatments for related disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating autoimmune diseases and other disorders related to cell adhesion.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell adhesion mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brasch, Julia — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Brasch, Julia
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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.