Understanding how ceramides affect cancer cells
Ceramide Activated Protein Phosphatases
This project explores how certain molecules called ceramides control the growth and death of human cancer cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121051 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies contain molecules called ceramides that play a role in how cells respond to stress and whether they grow or die, especially in cancer. We are working to understand exactly where ceramides act within cancer cells and what specific targets they affect. This involves developing new ways to measure ceramides at the cell surface and studying how they activate certain proteins that then change how cancer cells stick together and move. By uncovering these basic mechanisms, we hope to find new ways to control cancer cell behavior.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve patient participation, but future studies building on this work might benefit patients with various human cancers.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of cancer cell biology, potentially opening doors for new treatments that target ceramide pathways.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon prior findings from the research team that identified ceramide-activated proteins, suggesting a promising direction for further investigation.
Where this research is happening
Stony Brook, United States
- State University New York Stony Brook — Stony Brook, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hannun, Yusuf Awni — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Hannun, Yusuf Awni
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.