Understanding how copper-binding factors influence muscle gene expression
Official title: Mechanisms of Cu-binding factors to promote myogenic gene expression
Funded at Wesleyan University · NIH-11067852 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins that bind to copper can help muscle cells grow and develop, which could lead to better understanding and treatments for muscle-related diseases that involve copper.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wesleyan University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Middletown, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2021 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $350,616 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR077578-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11067852 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with muscle disorders or conditions associated with copper metabolism, such as Menkes or Wilson's diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without muscle-related conditions or those not affected by copper metabolism issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of copper-binding factors in the development and differentiation of skeletal muscle cells. By examining how these factors affect gene expression, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that regulate muscle cell growth and function. The research utilizes advanced biochemical techniques to analyze the interactions between copper and specific proteins involved in muscle development. Patients may benefit from insights gained into muscle-related diseases linked to copper metabolism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for muscle disorders related to copper imbalances.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of trace metals in muscle biology, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Wesleyan University
Middletown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Padilla-Benavides, Teresita Del Nino Jesus — Wesleyan University
- Study coordinator: Padilla-Benavides, Teresita Del Nino Jesus
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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.