Understanding how mitochondria influence cell decisions

Decode Mitochondrial Morphology Dynamics to Predict Cell Fate Decisions

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-10473200

This study is looking at how tiny powerhouses in our cells, called mitochondria, help decide what type of cell they become, which is important for understanding diseases like Alzheimer's and cancer. By using special imaging tools, researchers want to see how mitochondria change and how those changes might affect cell behavior, hoping to uncover new ways to understand these diseases better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10473200 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of mitochondria in determining how cells differentiate, particularly in the context of diseases like Alzheimer's and cancer. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to track the dynamic behavior of mitochondria within cells and understand how these changes relate to cell fate decisions. The approach involves creating a predictive model that links mitochondrial morphology to cellular signaling and differentiation processes, which could lead to new insights into disease mechanisms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, as well as patients with certain types of cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with non-neurological or non-cancerous conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for conditions like Alzheimer's disease and certain cancers by targeting mitochondrial function.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial dynamics and their implications in cell fate, indicating that this approach has potential for significant breakthroughs.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer disease, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's disease dementia, Alzheimers disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.