Understanding how proteins transport materials in cells
Molecular mechanism of bidirectional transport
This study is looking at how certain proteins help move important materials around inside cells, which is especially important for brain cells, and it aims to understand how problems with this transport might be connected to diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11009497 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the transport of vesicles and organelles within cells, focusing on the roles of specific proteins called kinesin and dynein. These proteins are crucial for the movement of materials in neurons and other cell types, and defects in this transport are linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS. The study employs advanced microscopy techniques to observe how these proteins work together and how their activities are regulated, aiming to uncover the fundamental processes that enable effective cellular transport.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease or ALS.
Not a fit: Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those not affected by cellular transport issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential therapies for neurodegenerative diseases and conditions related to cellular transport dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cellular transport mechanisms, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
University Park, United States
- Pennsylvania State University, the — University Park, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hancock, William Olaf — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Hancock, William Olaf
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.