Understanding how cells insert important proteins into their membranes
Mechanistic Understanding of Post-Translational Membrane Protein Targeting
This study is looking at how cells help certain important proteins get into their membranes, which is key for things like transporting materials and controlling cell death, and it's using special imaging techniques to better understand this process.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10913396 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which cells deliver and insert tail-anchored proteins into the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. These proteins are crucial for various cellular functions, including vesicle transport and regulation of cell death. The study employs advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy to visualize the processes involved in protein targeting and insertion. By dissecting the molecular events of the Guided Entry of Tail-anchored proteins (GET) pathway, the research aims to fill existing knowledge gaps about cellular organization and function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to protein targeting defects, such as certain cancers or cardiac malformations.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to protein targeting or those who do not have a cellular dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into cellular processes that may improve treatments for diseases related to protein misfolding and targeting, such as certain cancers and cardiac malformations.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding protein targeting mechanisms, but this specific approach using cryo-electron microscopy is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
East Lansing, United States
- Michigan State University — East Lansing, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Hyojin (Kelly) — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Kim, Hyojin (Kelly)
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 below.