Understanding how cells transport polyamines
Structure and function of polyamine transporters
This study is looking at how certain tiny molecules called polyamines help keep our cells healthy and how they move in and out of cells, which is important for understanding diseases like ALS and finding new ways to treat them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hershey, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11085219 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of polyamines in cellular processes and their transport mechanisms, which are crucial for maintaining cell health. By examining the structure and function of polyamine transporters, particularly the ATP13A2 protein, the research aims to uncover how disruptions in polyamine transport can lead to various diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders. The study employs advanced structural biology techniques to visualize these transporters at the atomic level, which could lead to new therapeutic targets for conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or those with related genetic mutations.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to polyamine transport or those who do not have neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases and other conditions linked to polyamine transport dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on polyamine transporters is relatively novel, related research has shown promise in understanding cellular transport mechanisms and their implications for disease.
Where this research is happening
Hershey, United States
- Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr — Hershey, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Kenneth Pk — Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Lee, Kenneth Pk
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.