Understanding the Protein EWSR1 in ALS and Cancers
An Integrated Biochemical and Structural Approach to Delineating the Biology of EWSR1
This research aims to understand how a specific protein called EWSR1 works normally and how it forms harmful clumps in conditions like ALS and certain childhood cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11123331 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on proteins like EWSR1 to perform essential tasks, such as processing genetic material, by forming organized groups. However, in diseases like Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and some pediatric cancers, these proteins can misbehave and form abnormal, harmful clumps. We want to learn more about the structure of EWSR1 and how these clumps form, which is currently not well understood. By looking closely at EWSR1, we hope to uncover the basic reasons why these proteins go wrong.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases like ALS or certain pediatric cancers linked to EWSR1 protein issues might eventually benefit from this foundational knowledge.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not related to the EWSR1 protein or similar protein clumping mechanisms may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Successfully understanding how EWSR1 functions and misbehaves could lead to new ways to prevent or treat neurodegenerative diseases and pediatric cancers.
How similar studies have performed: This research explores fundamental aspects of protein behavior that are currently poorly understood, suggesting a novel approach to a complex problem.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Libich, David Steven — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Libich, David Steven
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.