Understanding how cells manage damaged proteins and organelles

The diverse roles of ER-Golgi trafficking machinery in autophagy and ER quality control

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11057585

This study is looking at how cells clean up and get rid of damaged parts, focusing on a special process that helps keep a part of the cell called the endoplasmic reticulum healthy, which could help us understand more about cell health and diseases.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11057585 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which cells selectively degrade damaged proteins and organelles through a process called autophagy. It focuses on a specific pathway known as ER-phagy, which is crucial for maintaining the quality of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). By studying how certain proteins interact to facilitate the degradation of these damaged components, the research aims to uncover new insights into cellular health and disease. The approach involves both in vitro experiments and the use of yeast models to explore these cellular processes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to protein misfolding or cellular quality control issues, such as diabetes or other metabolic disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to protein degradation or cellular quality control may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating diseases related to protein misfolding and cellular stress, such as diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding autophagy and its role in cellular health, indicating that this approach has potential for significant breakthroughs.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.