Understanding how proteins transport materials within cells

Functional protein disorder in intracellular transport

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11005993

This study is looking at how certain proteins help move important materials inside our cells, which could help us understand problems related to brain development and colon cancer, and possibly lead to new treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11005993 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which proteins, specifically dynein and kinesin motor complexes, transport essential materials within human cells. By utilizing advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy and artificial intelligence, the study aims to uncover the structural and functional roles of disordered protein regions in this transport process. The findings could provide insights into how misregulation of these proteins is linked to neurodevelopmental disorders and colon cancer, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or those affected by neurodegenerative diseases and colon cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to intracellular transport mechanisms or those not diagnosed with the specified disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for conditions like autism spectrum disorder and colon cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding protein transport mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions autism spectral disorderautism spectrum disorderAutistic Disorderautistic spectrum disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.