Understanding how cells improve hormone secretion
Official title: A generalizable platform to identify cellular mechanisms that enhance secretory efficiency
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11124615 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cells, especially those in the pancreas and brain, manage the release of hormones, with the goal of finding new ways to help people with diabetes and bipolar disorder by improving how these hormones are secreted.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $415,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM154893-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11124615 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder, depression, or diabetes who may experience issues related to hormone secretion.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to hormone secretion or those who do not have metabolic or mental health disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to explore the cellular mechanisms that control how hormones are packaged and secreted by cells, particularly focusing on the processes in beta cells and neurons. By investigating the maturation of secretory granules, the study seeks to identify potential drug targets that could enhance hormone secretion efficiency in patients with conditions like bipolar disorder and diabetes. The approach involves examining different subpopulations of secretory granules to understand their unique properties and how they contribute to hormone release. This could lead to new insights into treating disorders linked to hormone secretion defects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve hormone secretion, benefiting patients with bipolar disorder and other related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cellular mechanisms related to hormone secretion, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: White, Kate L. — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: White, Kate L.
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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.