Understanding how cells manage improperly folded proteins
Official title: Mechanisms of translational regulation by the unfolded protein response
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11273402 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cells help proteins fold correctly, especially in a part of the cell called the endoplasmic reticulum, and it aims to understand how problems with this process might be connected to diseases like Alzheimer's, using advanced tools to learn more about how our cells stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 4R00GM143527-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11273402 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases, particularly those with Alzheimer's disease or related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to protein misfolding or those who do not have neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which cells regulate protein folding, particularly focusing on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which is crucial for the proper maturation of proteins. The study aims to explore how the unfolded protein response (UPR) can influence the translation of proteins when misfolding occurs, potentially linking this process to various diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's. By utilizing advanced techniques such as CryoEM and functional genomics, the research seeks to uncover new insights into cellular health and disease mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases associated with protein misfolding, such as Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding protein folding mechanisms, indicating that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sangwan, Smriti — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Sangwan, Smriti
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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.