Understanding how cells sense amino acids for growth regulation

Mechanisms of amino-acid sensing by the GATOR complex

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10908437

This study is looking at how a group of proteins called GATOR helps cells know when they have enough building blocks (amino acids) to grow, which is important for keeping our bodies healthy, and it’s for anyone interested in how our cells make decisions based on the food we eat.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10908437 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how a complex of proteins known as GATOR helps cells detect and respond to the availability of amino acids, which are crucial for cellular growth and metabolism. By studying the interactions between GATOR and specific amino acids like leucine, arginine, and methionine, the research aims to uncover the signaling pathways that influence whether a cell should grow or maintain itself based on nutrient availability. This work involves advanced molecular biology techniques to track how these amino acids affect cellular decisions and metabolic processes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve abnormal cell growth or metabolism, particularly cancer patients.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to amino acid metabolism or cellular growth may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing diseases related to cell growth, such as cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cellular signaling pathways related to nutrient sensing, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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.
Conditions CancersDiseaseDisorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.