Understanding how cells divide and the role of septins in this process
Official title: Cytokinesis and the Septin Cytoskeleton
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10842087 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cells divide and the important role of certain proteins called septins in that process, using yeast to help understand how problems with these proteins might be linked to serious health issues like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $643,078 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM153501-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10842087 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's, as well as those with conditions related to cell division defects.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cell division or septin function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the process of cytokinesis, which is how cells divide, focusing on the role of septins, a type of protein that forms scaffolds within cells. By using budding yeast as a model organism, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind the assembly and remodeling of septin structures during cell division. The study will explore how defects in these processes can lead to serious health issues, including neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The findings could provide insights into fundamental cellular functions and their implications for various diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new understanding and potential treatments for diseases related to cell division, including Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding cellular processes using model organisms like yeast, indicating that this approach is promising.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bi, Erfei — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Bi, Erfei
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.