Understanding how muscle cells communicate to trigger contraction
Official title: Defining architecture of EC coupling machinery in situ
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10872299 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how muscles contract by exploring the tiny structures that help release calcium in muscle cells, which could lead to better understanding and treatments for muscle disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $166,452 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AR082833-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10872299 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with muscle disorders, particularly those related to excitation-contraction coupling, such as Central Core Disease or Central Core Myopathy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with muscle disorders unrelated to excitation-contraction coupling may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the intricate process of excitation-contraction coupling (ECC) in skeletal muscle, which is essential for muscle contraction. By using advanced cryogenic electron tomography, the study aims to visualize the 3D architecture of key proteins involved in this process, specifically focusing on the interactions between calcium channels in muscle cells. This approach will help clarify how these proteins work together to release calcium ions, which are crucial for muscle function. Patients may benefit from insights gained into muscle disorders that affect this signaling pathway.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for muscle disorders by enhancing our understanding of muscle cell signaling.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding muscle signaling pathways, but this specific approach using cryogenic electron tomography is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Serysheva, Irina I — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Serysheva, Irina I
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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.