Understanding how CRAC calcium channels are controlled
Molecular regulation of the CRAC channel signaling pathway
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI · NIH-11325881
Researchers are learning how CRAC calcium channels let calcium into cells to help people with diseases caused by CRAC channel problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CINCINNATI, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11325881 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Scientists will study the Orai and STIM proteins that open CRAC calcium channels, using fruit fly models and human channel proteins to see how the pieces fit and work. They will map which parts of the proteins are essential for opening and closing the channel and test how disease-linked mutations change channel behavior. This is lab-based structural and molecular work rather than a treatment trial in people. The goal is to explain how CRAC channels normally work and how genetic changes can lead to illness.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with known genetic changes in Orai or STIM genes, or with related immune or muscle conditions, would be most relevant for future related studies.
Not a fit: People without conditions linked to calcium signaling, or those seeking immediate treatment options, are unlikely to benefit directly from this basic lab research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new targets for medicines or diagnostic tests for disorders caused by faulty CRAC channels, such as some immune and muscle diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Prior lab studies have established Orai and STIM as key CRAC channel components and tied some mutations to human disease, but moving from that knowledge to treatments remains in early stages.
Where this research is happening
CINCINNATI, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI — CINCINNATI, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HOU, XIAOWEI — UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI
- Study coordinator: HOU, XIAOWEI
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.