Understanding how lipases are regulated in the body
Self-regulation of Lipases by Changes to Quaternary Structure
This study is looking at how certain enzymes called lipases, which help keep our metabolism in check, can go out of balance in conditions like pancreatitis, and it aims to find new ways to manage their activity for better health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11088240 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the regulation of lipases, which are crucial for maintaining metabolic balance in the body. It focuses on how lipases, particularly pancreatic triacylglycerol lipase (PTL), can become dysregulated in conditions like pancreatitis, leading to harmful effects. The researchers will use advanced imaging techniques to study the structure of lipases within cells and develop specific tools to observe their behavior. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify new ways to control lipase activity and improve metabolic health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from pancreatitis or metabolic disorders related to lipase dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to lipase regulation or those who do not have metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for conditions like pancreatitis and metabolic syndrome by improving the regulation of lipase activity.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding lipase regulation, but this specific approach using cryo-electron tomography is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Stony Brook, United States
- State University New York Stony Brook — Stony Brook, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gunn, Kathryn Harris — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Gunn, Kathryn Harris
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.