Understanding how mitochondria and lysosomes interact in nerve cells and their role in diseases.
Molecular mechanisms underlying mitochondria-lysosome membrane contact sites in neuronal function and neurodegeneration
This study is looking at how two important parts of nerve cells, called mitochondria and lysosomes, work together to keep our nerve cells healthy, which could help us understand diseases like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10533262 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between mitochondria and lysosomes, two essential organelles in nerve cells, to understand their roles in maintaining neuronal health and how their dysfunction contributes to neurodegenerative diseases like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. The study will utilize long-term cultures of human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons to explore the molecular mechanisms behind these organelle interactions. By examining how these organelles communicate and function together, the research aims to uncover new insights into neuronal health and disease progression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease or other neurodegenerative conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to mitochondrial or lysosomal dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating neurodegenerative diseases by targeting the interactions between mitochondria and lysosomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on mitochondria-lysosome interactions in neurons is relatively novel, previous research has shown success in understanding organelle dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wong, Yvette — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Wong, Yvette
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.