Understanding how dyneins power cilia for movement and function
Structural characterization of single, double and triple-headed axonemal dyneins
This study is looking at special proteins that help tiny hair-like structures in our bodies move, which is important for things like fertility and fighting off illness, and it aims to understand how these proteins work in different living things, including humans, to improve our knowledge of health issues related to cilia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10873860 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the structural characteristics of axonemal dyneins, which are essential proteins that power the movement of cilia involved in fertility and immune responses. By using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, the study aims to visualize these dyneins in their active states, providing insights into how they function in different organisms, including humans. The research focuses on understanding the differences between various types of dyneins based on their structure and position within the cilia, which could lead to a better understanding of ciliary motility and its implications for human health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing fertility issues or conditions related to ciliary dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients with non-ciliary related health issues or those not experiencing fertility challenges may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into fertility and treatments for conditions related to ciliary dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using cryo-electron microscopy to study protein structures, indicating that this approach is promising.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Harvard Medical School — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brown, Alan — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Brown, Alan
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.