Understanding how calcium-sensing receptors work in the body
Official title: Pleiotropic pathways of extracellular calcium sensing
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10952565 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special protein that helps keep calcium levels balanced in the body, and it aims to understand how changes in this protein might be linked to conditions like Alzheimer's disease, so that we can find better ways to help patients feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 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 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $246,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD116151-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10952565 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with Alzheimer's disease or related calcium homeostatic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any calcium-related disorders or those not affected by Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR), which plays a crucial role in maintaining calcium balance in the body and is involved in various cellular processes. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to understand how CaSR interacts with different proteins and how mutations in this receptor can lead to disorders, including Alzheimer's disease. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to normalize receptor signaling through specific modulators. The research will also explore the effects of these mutations on the receptor's function and expression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for conditions related to calcium imbalance, including Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding calcium-sensing receptors and their role in various diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fan, Qing R — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Fan, Qing R
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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.