Understanding how cells sense nutrients to fight diabetes and cancer
Genetic mechanisms of signal integration in the nutrient sensing network
This research explores how cells recognize and use nutrients, which could lead to new ways to help people with type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11092944 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies' cells have complex ways of sensing energy and nutrients, and when this system doesn't work right, it can contribute to conditions like type 2 diabetes and obesity. Cancer also thrives when cells improperly use nutrients for rapid growth. This project aims to understand how cells tell the difference between various nutrients and combine signals from different sensing pathways. By studying these processes in simple organisms like yeast and fungi, which share similar systems with humans, we hope to uncover new targets for future treatments. This foundational knowledge could pave the way for better therapies for metabolic diseases and cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals living with or at risk for type 2 diabetes, obesity, or cancer in the future.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from participating in this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets for medications to treat type 2 diabetes, obesity, and various cancers.
How similar studies have performed: While many nutrient sensing pathways were first identified in microbes, this project focuses on less-studied microbes with diverse nutrient use, suggesting a novel approach to uncover new mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Ithaca, United States
- Cornell University — Ithaca, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huberman, Lori B — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Huberman, Lori B
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.