Understanding how mTOR signaling affects cell growth and survival

Mechanisms of autophagy and mTOR signaling

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10841983

This study is looking at how a specific pathway in our cells helps them grow and survive, especially when they're low on energy, and it aims to understand how this pathway affects the cleanup process in cells, which could lead to new ideas for treating diseases like cancer and age-related issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10841983 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mTOR signaling pathway, which is crucial for regulating cell growth, survival, and metabolism based on nutrient and energy levels. The study aims to fill knowledge gaps regarding how mTOR controls the processes of autophagy, the cellular cleanup mechanism, and how cells choose between autophagy and apoptosis during energy crises. By exploring these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover new insights into cellular responses that could impact various diseases, including cancers and age-related conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with conditions related to cellular metabolism, such as cancer, diabetes, or age-related pathologies.

Not a fit: Patients with stable, non-progressive conditions that do not involve cellular growth or metabolism may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases related to cell growth and survival, such as cancer and metabolic disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mTOR signaling and its implications for cellular processes, indicating that this area of study has potential for significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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.
Conditions Cancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.