Understanding how ion channels are regulated in the body
Physiologic mechanisms of ion channel regulation
This study is looking at a special channel in our cells that helps with important functions like heart health and nerve signaling, to see how certain fats affect its activity, which could help us understand its role in diseases like breast and pancreatic cancers and improve treatment options for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11058409 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the TMEM16A ion channel, which plays a crucial role in various physiological processes such as heart function, nerve signaling, and electrolyte balance. The study aims to uncover how specific lipids and fatty acids influence the activity of this channel, which is essential for normal cellular function. By exploring the mechanisms that activate TMEM16A, the research could provide insights into its role in diseases like breast and pancreatic cancers. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how these channels work and their implications for treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions linked to TMEM16A channel mutations or dysfunction, such as specific types of cancer.
Not a fit: Patients without any known ion channel-related disorders or those not affected by the conditions studied 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 ion channel dysfunction, including certain cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding ion channel regulation can lead to significant advancements in treating related diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carlson, Anne E — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Carlson, Anne E
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.