NIH-funded research R01 grant

Understanding how lipids are transported between cell membranes

Official title: Analysis of Bulk Lipid Transport at Membrane Contact Sites

Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11141818 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at special proteins that help move fats around inside cells, which is really important for keeping our cells healthy, and it's using fruit flies to see how problems with these proteins might be linked to diseases like Alzheimer's.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project startJuly 19, 2024
Project endMay 31, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$497,317
NIH project number5R01GM155154-02
Project IDNIH-11141818 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-neurological conditions or those not affected by lipid metabolism disorders may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of bridge-like lipid transfer proteins (BLTPs) in the transport of lipids between organelle membranes, which is crucial for maintaining cellular function. Using a Drosophila model, the study aims to explore how disruptions in these proteins can lead to significant physiological and cellular changes. By examining the molecular and cellular functions of BLTPs, the research seeks to uncover their importance in health and disease, particularly in conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the mechanisms of lipid transport and its implications for diseases such as Alzheimer's, potentially paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies.

How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on BLTPs is novel, similar research on lipid transport mechanisms has shown promise in understanding various diseases.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Madison, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Bashirullah, Arash — University of Wisconsin-Madison
  • Study coordinator: Bashirullah, Arash

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.