Understanding how specific molecules on cell surfaces interact with proteins in diseases like diabetes and cancer
Official title: Glycolipid biointerface to decipher disease-implicated ganglioside-protein interactions
Funded at University of California Riverside · NIH-11100901 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain molecules on cell surfaces interact with proteins related to type 2 diabetes and some cancers, using a special system to better understand these interactions, which could lead to new treatments that help patients manage their conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Riverside NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Riverside, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $239,418 |
| NIH project number | 3R01GM148803-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11100901 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or specific cancers that may be influenced by ganglioside-protein interactions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to gangliosides or those not diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or the specific cancers being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the complex interactions between gangliosides, which are molecules found on the surface of cells, and proteins that are implicated in diseases such as type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. By developing a new biomimetic membrane system, the researchers aim to create a platform that allows for detailed study of these interactions. This could help uncover the biochemical mechanisms behind how gangliosides affect cell behavior and disease progression, ultimately leading to better therapeutic strategies. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how these interactions influence their conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating type 2 diabetes and certain cancers.
How similar studies have gone: While the study of gangliosides is complex and challenging, previous research has shown promising results in understanding their roles in cellular processes, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Riverside
Riverside, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cheng, Quan Jason — University of California Riverside
- Study coordinator: Cheng, Quan Jason
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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.