Understanding how the KIF1A motor protein works and its role in certain neurological disorders
Official title: Structure and Mechanism of the Kinesin-3 Motor KIF1A
Funded at Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-10909312 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special protein called KIF1A that helps move important materials in nerve cells, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how problems with this protein might lead to brain disorders, with hopes of finding new ways to help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $621,671 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM147332-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909312 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with KIF1A-associated neurological disorders or those exhibiting symptoms related to these conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any neurodevelopmental or neurodegenerative disorders related to KIF1A may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the kinesin-3 motor protein KIF1A, which is crucial for transporting materials within neurons. By using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy and single-molecule fluorescence, the team aims to uncover how KIF1A generates movement along microtubules and how its dysfunction contributes to various neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. The findings could provide insights into the molecular mechanisms behind KIF1A-related diseases, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of KIF1A-related neurological disorders, paving the way for improved treatments.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms of KIF1A are still being explored, similar studies on motor proteins have shown promise in understanding their roles in cellular transport and associated diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gennerich, Arne — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Gennerich, Arne
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.