Understanding how metals like copper and iron affect health in the body.
Metalloendocrinology: Mapping Bioinorganic Chemistry in the Extracellular Space
This study is looking at how important metals like copper and iron behave in our bodies and how they might affect our health, especially in relation to diseases like cancer and heart problems, so that we can create better tests to spot any imbalances that could lead to these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10661576 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of essential metals, particularly copper and iron, in biological processes and their impact on health. It aims to map the presence and behavior of these metals in the extracellular space, such as blood plasma, to better understand their functions and potential imbalances that could lead to diseases like cancer and cardiovascular disorders. By developing advanced methods to assess metal speciation, the research seeks to provide insights into how these metals contribute to cellular processes and disease mechanisms. Patients may benefit from improved diagnostic tools that can detect subtle metal imbalances linked to various health conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with conditions related to metal imbalances, such as certain cancers or cardiovascular diseases.
Not a fit: Patients with stable metal levels and no related health conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic methods for detecting metal imbalances that contribute to serious health conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding metal roles in health, but this approach to mapping extracellular metal speciation is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Davis, United States
- University of California at Davis — Davis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heffern, Marie C. — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Heffern, Marie C.
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.