Understanding how PFK enzyme regulation affects diseases like Alzheimer's and cancer
Official title: Investigating the Structure and Regulation of PFK
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10899387 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special enzyme called phosphofructokinase (PFK) that helps our bodies process sugar and is important for understanding diseases like Alzheimer's and cancer, to find out how different versions of this enzyme work and how they might help us create better treatments for these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2024 |
| Project end | August 15, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $76,756 |
| NIH project number | 1F32GM154453-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10899387 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related conditions, as well as those with cancers associated with PFK dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to PFK dysfunction or those not diagnosed with Alzheimer's or cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the phosphofructokinase (PFK) enzyme, which plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism and is linked to various diseases, including Alzheimer's and cancer. The study aims to explore the unique regulatory properties of different PFK isoforms using advanced techniques such as cryo-electron microscopy and mutagenesis. By examining how these isoforms respond to changes in pH and ATP levels, the research seeks to uncover the structural differences that influence PFK activity. This knowledge could lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for conditions associated with PFK dysfunction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease and other conditions linked to PFK dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding enzyme regulation and its implications for disease treatment, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Salay, Lauren — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Salay, Lauren
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.