NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding how cells adapt to stress and nutrient changes in mitochondria

Official title: Coordination of PAR and Ub signaling in mitochondria

Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11049039 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how cells adjust to changes in food and stress, especially in the tiny powerhouses called mitochondria, to understand how certain proteins might play a role in conditions like breast cancer and obesity, which could help improve health and treatment options for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston University Medical Campus
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2023
Project endMarch 31, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$439,725
NIH project number5R35GM149339-03
Project IDNIH-11049039 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with metabolic disorders, obesity, or breast cancer.

Less likely to help

Patients with unrelated conditions or those not experiencing metabolic stress or cancer may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that help cells adapt to changes in nutrient availability and oxidative stress, particularly focusing on mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells. The team studies how certain proteins, like GPS2, regulate gene expression and protein function during these stress responses. By examining the role of ubiquitination, a process that modifies proteins, the research aims to uncover how these mechanisms contribute to conditions like breast cancer and obesity. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how these processes affect their health and treatment options.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating metabolic disorders and cancers by targeting mitochondrial function.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial stress responses, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

  • Boston University Medical Campus
    Boston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Perissi, Valentina — Boston University Medical Campus
  • Study coordinator: Perissi, Valentina

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About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.