Understanding How Important Proteins Get Into Our Cells' Powerhouses
Biogenesis of alpha-helical mitochondrial outer membrane proteins in higher eukaryotes
This project aims to understand how vital proteins are correctly placed into the outer part of mitochondria, which are the powerhouses of our cells, to help us learn more about conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11340118 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our cells rely on tiny power generators called mitochondria, and this project explores how crucial proteins are correctly placed into their outer layer. These proteins are essential for mitochondria to communicate with the rest of the cell and perform important functions like managing cell death and immune responses. Researchers are focusing on a specific protein called MTCH2, which acts like a guide to ensure other proteins get to the right place. By understanding this fundamental process, we hope to uncover new insights into how cellular functions go wrong in diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work does not involve direct patient participation at this stage, but future studies building on this knowledge may seek individuals with conditions related to mitochondrial dysfunction or Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by conditions linked to mitochondrial protein insertion or Alzheimer's disease may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this foundational understanding could lead to new ways to address cellular problems seen in diseases like Alzheimer's.
How similar studies have performed: Initial work has identified a key protein involved in this process, suggesting a promising direction for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guna, Alina-Ioana — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Guna, Alina-Ioana
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.