Understanding how certain receptors influence cell recycling processes
Official title: Mechanisms of GPCR-induced Autophagy
Funded at University of Maine Orono · NIH-11080326 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain receptors in our cells can help recycle cell parts and kickstart a process called autophagy, even when there’s no stress, using yeast as a model, and the findings could help create new treatments for diseases in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maine Orono NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Orono, United States) |
| Project start | April 5, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $268,064 |
| NIH project number | 5P20GM144265-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080326 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with conditions influenced by GPCR signaling and autophagy, particularly cancer patients.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to GPCR signaling or autophagy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) detect signals from outside the cell and trigger a process called autophagy, which recycles cellular components. The study will explore how these receptors can initiate autophagy even without external stress, particularly in the context of yeast mating pathways. By examining the mechanisms behind this process, the research aims to uncover how GPCR activation can lead to a feedback loop that regulates receptor signaling. This understanding could have implications for developing new treatments that target GPCRs and autophagy in human diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases where GPCRs and autophagy play critical roles, such as cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding GPCR signaling and autophagy, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maine Orono
Orono, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kelley, Joshua Brian — University of Maine Orono
- Study coordinator: Kelley, Joshua Brian
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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.