Understanding mitochondrial myopathies using advanced imaging techniques
Official title: Developing minimal purification cryo-EM to understand mitochondrial myopathies
Funded at Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-10732697 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny parts of our cells called mitochondria to see how changes in our genes and environment can affect their function, which is important for people with mitochondrial myopathies, and the goal is to help find better treatments for these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $444,109 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AR083157-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10732697 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with mitochondrial myopathies or related mitochondrial disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-mitochondrial related muscle disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on using a cutting-edge imaging technique called single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to investigate the structures of mitochondrial complexes in human cells. By analyzing these structures, the research aims to uncover how genetic and environmental factors disrupt normal mitochondrial function, which can lead to diseases. The approach involves minimal sample requirements and aims to improve our understanding of drug resistance in mitochondrial myopathies. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could inform future drug development and treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for mitochondrial myopathies and related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using cryo-EM have successfully elucidated complex structures in various biological systems, indicating a promising approach for this research.
Where this research is happening
-
Scripps Research Institute, the
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lander, Gabriel C — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: Lander, Gabriel C
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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.