Understanding how collagen is broken down in the body
Allosteric control of collagen fibril degradation by matrix metalloprotease-1
This study is looking at how certain enzymes break down collagen, which is important for keeping our tissues healthy, to help us understand their role in skin and heart problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Arizona State University-Tempe Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tempe, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10907837 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which specific enzymes, known as matrix metalloproteases (MMPs), degrade collagen fibrils, which are crucial for maintaining tissue integrity. Using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to track the behavior of these enzymes on collagen fibrils to better understand their roles in various diseases, including skin conditions and cardiovascular issues. The research combines innovative single-molecule tracking, simulations, and animal studies to explore how MMP1 and MMP9 interact with collagen. By uncovering these mechanisms, the research seeks to provide insights into tissue remodeling processes that are vital for health and disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with conditions involving collagen degradation, such as atherosclerosis or certain skin diseases.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to collagen metabolism or those not experiencing tissue remodeling may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for conditions related to collagen degradation, such as atherosclerosis and skin diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding collagen degradation mechanisms, but this specific approach using single-molecule tracking is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Tempe, United States
- Arizona State University-Tempe Campus — Tempe, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sarkar, Susanta Kumar — Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
- Study coordinator: Sarkar, Susanta Kumar
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.