Understanding how natural compounds affect cell signals
Synthesis and Evaluation of Alkaloids to Probe Membrane Receptors
This project aims to discover new natural compounds that can change how our cells communicate, which could lead to better ways to improve health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11161488 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on tiny signals between cells, and this project explores how natural compounds can influence these signals. We are creating and testing complex natural products to see how they interact with important cell receptors, like those involved in how we sense pain or respond to nicotine. By understanding these interactions better, we hope to find new ways to address various health challenges. This work could lead to new tools for studying diseases and potentially new starting points for future medicines.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work is not currently recruiting patients, but future studies building on these discoveries may seek individuals with conditions related to cell signaling or pain.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options will not directly benefit from this early-stage chemical discovery work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide new chemical tools to understand diseases better and identify promising starting points for developing future medications.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds on previous findings that identified certain natural compounds as effective in influencing cell receptors.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Riley, Andrew — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Riley, Andrew
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 below.