Understanding how cells adapt to changes in water balance
Official title: Investigating the role of protein quality control in osmotic stress adaptation
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-10826142 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how cells handle changes in their size when they're under stress, like when the environment around them changes quickly, and it focuses on how certain proteins can get messed up during this process; by learning more about this, we hope to find ways to help cells stay strong and adapt better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31GM153158-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10826142 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's or ALS, where protein misfolding is a significant concern.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to protein misfolding or osmotic stress may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how cells respond to osmotic stress, which occurs when there are rapid changes in cell volume due to environmental factors. It focuses on the role of protein quality control during these stress conditions, particularly how certain proteins may misfold or aggregate. The study employs advanced techniques such as mass spectrometry and genome-editing to identify and analyze proteins that are affected by osmotic changes. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new insights into cellular resilience and adaptation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing diseases associated with protein misfolding, such as Alzheimer's and ALS.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on osmotic stress and protein quality control is relatively novel, similar research has shown success in understanding protein misfolding in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Le, Kathy H — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Le, Kathy H
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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.