Understanding how kinesin motors are controlled in cells
Mechanisms of kinesin motor protein inhibition
This research explores how tiny motors inside our cells, called kinesins, are turned on and off to keep everything working correctly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11098579 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our cells rely on tiny motor proteins, called kinesins, to move important materials and structures around, which is essential for proper cell function, especially in nerve cells. Sometimes these motors need to be slowed down or stopped, and this project aims to understand the precise ways cells achieve this control. We are looking at how a specific protein, KIFBP, binds to kinesins to block their activity, and also how parts of the kinesin itself can cause it to self-regulate. By studying these fundamental processes, we hope to gain insights into how cells maintain their organization and respond to changes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with conditions linked to problems in cellular transport or nerve cell function might indirectly benefit from the knowledge gained from this fundamental research.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical interventions would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: A deeper understanding of how kinesin motors are regulated could eventually lead to new ways to treat diseases where cell transport is disrupted, such as certain neurological conditions.
How similar studies have performed: The discovery of KIFBP as a novel inhibitor suggests this approach explores new mechanisms, building on existing knowledge of kinesin regulation.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cianfrocco, Michael — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Cianfrocco, Michael
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.