Understanding how molecular motors work in protein management and gene expression

Mechanisms of Molecular Motors in Transcription and Protein Homeostasis

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM · NIH-11011543

This study is looking at how tiny motors inside our cells work to help keep everything running smoothly, especially as we age, and it hopes to uncover how problems with these motors might be linked to diseases like cancer and diabetes.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11011543 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which molecular motors operate to facilitate essential cellular processes like transcription and protein homeostasis. By studying specific motor proteins, the project aims to quantify the energetic and kinetic aspects of their functions, particularly in the context of aging and related diseases. The research employs advanced techniques such as transient state kinetics and single molecule approaches to bridge the gap between structural knowledge and functional understanding. This could lead to insights into how misfolded proteins contribute to diseases like cancer and diabetes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing age-related diseases, such as type II diabetes or certain cancers, where protein homeostasis is disrupted.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to protein homeostasis or molecular motor dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating diseases associated with protein misfolding and aggregation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding molecular motors, indicating that this approach has the potential for significant breakthroughs.

Where this research is happening

BIRMINGHAM, 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: adult onset diabetes, Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus, anti-cancer therapy

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.