Understanding how zinc affects cell functions and health

lluminating the biochemistry of zinc and RNA in live cells

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO · NIH-11000820

This study is looking at how zinc affects important processes in our cells, like how they grow and how they handle stress, which could help us understand its role in health and disease, and possibly lead to new treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF COLORADO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11000820 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of zinc in live cells, focusing on how its levels and dynamics influence essential cellular processes such as DNA synthesis, cell growth, and apoptosis. By examining the interactions between zinc and various proteins, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms through which zinc acts as a signaling ion in cellular functions. Patients may benefit from insights gained about zinc's role in health and disease, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies. The research employs advanced biochemistry techniques to analyze zinc dynamics in real-time within living cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with conditions related to zinc deficiency or dysregulation, such as immune disorders or certain cancers.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to zinc metabolism or cellular signaling may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that target zinc-related pathways to improve health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of metal ions in cellular processes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boulder, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.