Understanding how the body regulates iron transport
Structure and mechanism of mammalian ferroportin
This study is looking at a protein called ferroportin that helps control iron levels in the body, especially for people with conditions like hemochromatosis, to find new ways to help manage their iron overload.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10831954 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates ferroportin, the sole iron exporter in humans, and its role in iron metabolism disorders like hemochromatosis. By examining how ferroportin interacts with the hormone hepcidin, which regulates its activity, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind iron transport and inhibition at a molecular level. Patients with iron overload conditions may benefit from insights gained through structural and functional analyses of ferroportin. The goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets for normalizing iron levels in affected individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with hemochromatosis or other iron storage disorders.
Not a fit: Patients without iron metabolism disorders or those who do not have mutations affecting ferroportin may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for patients suffering from iron metabolism disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting the FPN-hepcidin axis for therapeutic interventions, suggesting a potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pan, Yaping — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Pan, Yaping
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.