Understanding how cells respond to changes in membrane tension
Official title: Plasma membrane stress response
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10777524 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how yeast cells handle pressure changes in their outer layer when faced with different environmental challenges, helping us understand how they stay healthy and communicate under stress.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $308,308 |
| NIH project number | 1R01GM152758-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10777524 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with conditions that affect cellular integrity or stress responses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable conditions that do not involve cellular stress or membrane tension issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how cells, specifically yeast, respond to changes in membrane tension caused by various environmental factors. By examining the effects of osmotic stress on yeast cells, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow cells to maintain their integrity and functionality under stress. The researchers will analyze how the endoplasmic reticulum interacts with the plasma membrane to facilitate rapid adjustments in membrane composition. This work could provide insights into cellular communication and signaling pathways that are crucial for cell survival.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to advancements in understanding cellular stress responses, potentially informing treatments for conditions related to cell dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding cellular responses to stress, but this specific approach focusing on membrane tension in yeast is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Babst, Markus — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Babst, Markus
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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.