Understanding how cells recycle damaged peroxisomes
Official title: Investigating the role of autophagy inducers and peroxisomal proteins in pexophagy
Funded at Rice University · NIH-10899140 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our cells clean up and recycle damaged parts called peroxisomes, which help keep us healthy by getting rid of harmful substances, and it aims to understand how this process works in both plants and people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rice University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2024 |
| Project end | September 17, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31GM151803-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10899140 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions linked to peroxisome dysfunction or those interested in cellular biology and its implications for health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to peroxisome function or those not interested in cellular biology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the process of pexophagy, where cells recycle damaged peroxisomes, which are essential for detoxifying harmful substances. By studying the role of specific proteins and autophagy in this process, the research aims to uncover how cells maintain their health and function under stress. The approach involves monitoring the behavior of peroxisomes and autophagosomes using advanced techniques like western blotting and fluorescence microscopy. This could lead to insights into how cellular recycling mechanisms work in both plants and humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of cellular health and lead to new strategies for treating diseases related to peroxisome dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on pexophagy in humans is relatively novel, similar studies on autophagy have shown promising results in understanding cellular processes.
Where this research is happening
-
Rice University
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jackson, Makaela — Rice University
- Study coordinator: Jackson, Makaela
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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.