Understanding how tight junctions work in cells
Mapping Tight Junction Architecture
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11071032
This study is looking at how tiny connections between cells, called tight junctions, work to keep our tissues healthy and protect our organs, which could help us find new ways to treat diseases linked to these connections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11071032 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the structure and function of tight junctions, which are crucial for maintaining the barrier properties of tissues in the body. By using advanced techniques from structural biology and cell biology, the project aims to observe how proteins involved in tight junctions interact and assemble. This understanding could reveal how these junctions regulate the passage of nutrients and protect organs from pathogens, which is vital for overall health. The research may also identify how dysregulation of tight junctions contributes to various diseases, paving the way for new therapeutic strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions linked to tight junction dysregulation, such as inflammatory bowel disease or certain cancers.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to tight junctions or those who do not have any epithelial or endothelial tissue issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for diseases associated with tight junction dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tight junctions, but this specific approach to directly observe their interactions is novel.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DILLARD, LUCAS — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: DILLARD, LUCAS
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.