Understanding how PEX11 affects the structure and function of peroxisomes
Official title: Investigating PEX11 roles in shaping peroxisome architecture and dynamics
Funded at Rice University · NIH-11018520 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called PEX11 helps shape tiny structures in cells called peroxisomes, which are important for our metabolism, using a plant called Arabidopsis to see what happens when PEX11 doesn't work properly, and the findings could help us understand certain metabolic disorders better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rice University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | January 5, 2024 |
| Project end | July 4, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31GM150269-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11018520 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with metabolic disorders that may involve peroxisome dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to peroxisome function or those not affected by metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called PEX11 in shaping the structure of peroxisomes, which are essential organelles involved in various metabolic processes. The study will utilize a plant model, Arabidopsis, to explore how mutations in PEX11 affect the formation of internal vesicles within peroxisomes and their overall function. By employing advanced techniques like CRISPR and confocal microscopy, researchers aim to clarify the mechanisms by which PEX11 influences peroxisome dynamics and biogenesis. This could lead to a better understanding of metabolic disorders linked to peroxisome dysfunction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of metabolic diseases and potentially lead to new therapeutic strategies for conditions related to peroxisome dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of PEX11 in peroxisome architecture is being explored, similar research has shown promising results in understanding organelle dynamics and their implications in metabolic processes.
Where this research is happening
-
Rice University
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tharp, Nathan — Rice University
- Study coordinator: Tharp, Nathan
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Semi-autonomous surgeon-guided in situ robotic bioprinting for repairing volumetric muscle loss
A surgeon-guided robotic bioprinting system would print bioinks directly onto muscle injury sites to help restore function and appearance.
-
Center to Bring Quick Cancer Tests from Lab to Patients
A center is being built at Rice University to create and spread affordable, easy cancer tests that can be used in clinics and rural areas to catch cancer early.
-
Center for Innovation and Translation of Point-of-Care Cancer Tests to Reach More Patients
A center is being created to develop simple, low-cost point-of-care tests to detect cancers early, especially in low-resource settings, so more people can get timely care.
-
Point-of-care HPV DNA test to screen for cervical cancer in low-resource settings
A new HPV DNA test designed to be used at the point of care to screen for cervical cancer, especially in areas with limited medical infrastructure or rural settings.
-
Fast, easy HIV test that detects the virus early
This project is building a quick, instrument-free HIV-1 test that can detect the virus in blood or saliva earlier than current rapid tests for people at risk of recent exposure or possible viral rebound.
-
Deep profiling of how fusion-driven pediatric cancers spread, using single-cell protein tools
Researchers will develop fast, highly capable single-cell protein measurements to understand how certain pediatric cancers, like Ewing sarcoma, spread and evade the immune system.
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.