Understanding how the Nuclear Pore Complex works in cells
Official title: Structure and Function of the Nuclear Pore Complex by Cryogenic-EM
Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11010476 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a tiny part of our cells called the Nuclear Pore Complex, which helps move important materials in and out of the cell's nucleus, and it's for anyone interested in how our cells grow and work properly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $408,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM156236-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11010476 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve cellular growth and differentiation, such as cancer or genetic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-progressive conditions that do not involve cellular transport or gene expression may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the structure and function of the Nuclear Pore Complex (NPC), which is crucial for transporting proteins and RNA between the cell nucleus and cytoplasm. Using advanced cryogenic electron microscopy, the study aims to visualize the NPC in different states to understand how it regulates gene expression during cell growth and differentiation. By analyzing the NPC's structure, researchers hope to uncover the mechanisms that control access to the nucleus, which is vital for cellular function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into cellular processes that affect growth and differentiation, potentially informing treatments for diseases related to gene expression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar cryogenic electron microscopy techniques has successfully provided insights into cellular structures, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University Medical Campus
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Akey, Christopher W — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Akey, Christopher W
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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.