NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding how lysosomes transport proteins and their role in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases

Official title: Mapping and Therapeutic Hijacking of Lysosomal Transport

Funded at Stanford University · NIH-10686547 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how tiny parts of our cells, called lysosomes, help manage waste and communicate with other cell parts, which could lead to better treatments for diseases like cancer and brain disorders.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2023
Project endAugust 31, 2026
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$1,385,226
NIH project number1DP2GM154016-01
Project IDNIH-10686547 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cancer or neurodegenerative disorders who may benefit from targeted therapies.

Less likely to help

Patients with conditions unrelated to lysosomal function or those not diagnosed with cancer or neurodegenerative diseases may not receive benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which lysosomes, the cell's waste disposal and recycling centers, transport proteins and communicate with other parts of the cell. By mapping the interactions between the cell surface and lysosomes, the study aims to uncover how these processes are regulated and how their dysregulation can lead to diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. The approach involves analyzing various cellular processes such as autophagy and endocytosis to identify potential therapeutic targets for drug delivery. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new treatments or improved drug delivery systems for their conditions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that enhance drug delivery and treatment efficacy for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting lysosomal pathways for drug delivery, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

  • Stanford University
    Stanford, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Banik, Steven — Stanford University
  • Study coordinator: Banik, Steven

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.