Understanding how cells manage important proteins through a special tagging system
Di-ubiquitin modification of ubiquitin ligase adaptors in membrane protein downregulation
This project explores how a tiny tag called ubiquitin helps cells control important proteins, which is key to understanding diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11087619 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on a complex system to manage proteins, including tagging them with a small molecule called ubiquitin. This tagging process, called ubiquitination, is vital for many cell functions, from repairing DNA to immune responses. When this system goes wrong, it can contribute to serious illnesses like certain brain disorders and cancers. This work focuses on how a specific part of this system, called an adaptor protein, gets a special "double ubiquitin" tag, which seems important for its activity. We aim to uncover the natural role of this double tagging in cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but could eventually benefit individuals with neurodegenerative diseases or various cancers.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options may not find direct benefit from this early-stage, basic science investigation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this fundamental understanding could pave the way for new treatments that target the ubiquitin system in diseases like neurodegenerative disorders and cancers.
How similar studies have performed: While the general ubiquitination system is well-studied, the specific mechanism of di-ubiquitination on adaptor proteins and its physiological function is a novel area of exploration.
Where this research is happening
Ithaca, United States
- Cornell University — Ithaca, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mao, Yuxin — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Mao, Yuxin
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.