Understanding how calcium signals work in plants and their implications for human diseases
Official title: Calcium encoding mechanisms in a model plant
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-10842198 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how calcium helps plants respond to different signals, which could also give us clues about similar processes in humans, including conditions like Alzheimer's, and it's aimed at anyone interested in how plants and human health are connected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $388,509 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM153498-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10842198 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, as well as those interested in advancements in understanding calcium signaling in human health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to calcium signaling or those not affected by neurodegenerative diseases may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which calcium ions (Ca2+) function as second messengers in plants, particularly focusing on how they encode and decode signals that lead to specific cellular responses. Using the model plant Arabidopsis, the study aims to uncover the fundamental principles of calcium signaling that could be relevant to various human diseases, including Alzheimer's. The research employs advanced biochemical techniques to analyze calcium channel activity and its role in plant immunity and growth processes. By understanding these mechanisms, the research hopes to bridge knowledge between plant and animal systems, potentially leading to insights applicable to human health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases linked to calcium signaling defects, including Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding calcium signaling in plants, which may provide a novel perspective for addressing similar mechanisms in human diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Luan, Sheng — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Luan, Sheng
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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.