Understanding the genetics of molybdenum cofactor
Official title: Genetic analyses of molybdenum cofactor biology
Funded at Sanford Research/usd · NIH-11132895 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This research explores how a vital substance called molybdenum cofactor, or Moco, works in the body to help us understand a rare and serious genetic condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sanford Research/usd NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Sioux Falls, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $415,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM146871-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11132895 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit those affected by or at risk for human Moco deficiency in the future.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without human Moco deficiency or related metabolic disorders would not directly benefit from this specific research.
What this research studies
Molybdenum cofactor (Moco) is a crucial component that all animals need to live, helping important enzymes in our bodies function correctly. When there are problems with the genes that make Moco, it leads to a rare and often deadly condition called human Moco deficiency. This condition affects how the body processes sulfur amino acids and purines, which are essential for health. Our goal is to uncover new ways animals maintain Moco balance and identify genetic pathways that control Moco-related metabolism. We use a small worm called C. elegans as a model to discover these fundamental biological processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of Moco deficiency, potentially paving the way for new treatments or therapies for this rare and lethal genetic disorder.
How similar studies have gone: This project builds on recent discoveries about how Moco is transported in animals, suggesting a novel and promising area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Sanford Research/usd
Sioux Falls, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Warnhoff, Kurt — Sanford Research/usd
- Study coordinator: Warnhoff, Kurt
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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.