Understanding How Tiny Cell Parts Work in Health and Disease
Nanoscale Approaches to Understanding Membrane Protein Function
This work explores how important proteins on the surface of our cells function, which is key to understanding many health conditions, including cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11078337 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies are made of cells, and each cell is surrounded by a protective membrane that controls what goes in and out. Many vital proteins live on these membranes, acting like gatekeepers, communicators, and workers for the cell. This project uses a special tool called 'Nanodiscs' to study these membrane proteins in a way that mimics their natural environment. By understanding how these proteins work at a very tiny level, we can learn more about how cells signal, produce hormones, process medicines, and interact with viruses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future clinical applications may benefit individuals with conditions related to cell signaling, hormone imbalances, or drug metabolism.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention will not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this fundamental understanding could lead to new ways to develop treatments for various diseases, including certain cancers, by targeting these crucial membrane proteins.
How similar studies have performed: The Nanodisc system, developed by this laboratory, has already enabled multiple new discoveries in understanding membrane proteins, suggesting a proven approach.
Where this research is happening
Champaign, United States
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sligar, Stephen G. — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Sligar, Stephen G.
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.