Understanding the body's calcium-sensing receptor
Mechanistic Basis of Calcium Sensing Receptor Signaling
['FUNDING_R01'] · ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL · NIH-11311378
Researchers are finding out how the calcium-sensing receptor works so future medicines can better help people with calcium and parathyroid problems, especially those with chronic kidney disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11311378 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team is using advanced structural imaging and lab experiments to see how the calcium-sensing receptor changes shape and sends signals. They look at how small drug-like molecules bind the receptor and which signaling partners get turned on. Most work is done with human receptor proteins and cell systems in the lab to map the activation steps. The goal is to use that detailed picture to guide safer, more precise drugs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with parathyroid disorders from chronic kidney disease or inherited calcium-sensing receptor disorders (including some forms linked to Bartter syndrome) would be most directly related to this work.
Not a fit: People without calcium or parathyroid conditions, or those seeking immediate clinical treatment, are unlikely to receive direct benefits from this lab-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to safer and more effective drugs that control parathyroid and calcium problems with fewer side effects.
How similar studies have performed: Existing drugs that target this receptor (like cinacalcet and etelcalcetide) can control parathyroid hormones, but they cause side effects, and using detailed structure-based design is a newer approach with promising potential.
Where this research is happening
MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES
- ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL — MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SKINIOTIS, GEORGIOS — ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: SKINIOTIS, GEORGIOS
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.
Conditions: Barter's Disease, Bartter Disease, Bartter Syndrome, Bartter syndrome (BS)