Understanding how mitochondria leak protons

Deciphering the mitochondrial proton leak

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · TEMPLE UNIV OF THE COMMONWEALTH · NIH-11249083

This study is looking at how energy production in our cells can be affected by a process called proton leak in mitochondria, which is important for people with conditions like diabetes, cancer, and aging, and it aims to find a better way to measure this process to help us understand it more clearly.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTEMPLE UNIV OF THE COMMONWEALTH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11249083 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms of proton leak in mitochondria, which are essential for energy production in our cells. By developing a new method to measure proton leak accurately, the study aims to differentiate between proton leak and proton slip, which can affect various health conditions. The approach involves using a pH-sensitive indicator in cells to assess mitochondrial function without the influence of metabolic activity. This could lead to a better understanding of mitochondrial roles in diseases like diabetes, cancer, and aging.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with metabolic disorders, aging-related conditions, or diseases linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to mitochondrial function may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve our understanding of mitochondrial dysfunction and lead to better treatments for metabolic and age-related diseases.

How similar studies have performed: While the study of mitochondrial function is well-established, the specific approach of measuring proton leak and slip is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, 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 →

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.