Understanding TRP channels that affect sensations and pain
Structure and function of Transient Receptor Potential Channels
Researchers are figuring out how TRP channel proteins and their genetic changes work so people with pain, sensory problems, or related cancers may benefit in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11294140 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at the shapes and behavior of TRP channels, especially a type called TRPV6, to understand how genetic variants change their function. The team will map channel structures and test how different molecules block or alter them using lab-based structural imaging and biochemical/biophysical experiments. They will compare how TRPV6 opens, closes, and is regulated versus other TRP channels to find patterns that matter for disease. The goal is to link specific genetic changes to functional effects that could guide drug design.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with chronic pain, sensory disorders, or cancers known to involve TRP channel variants—or those with identified TRPV6 genetic changes—would be most relevant to this research.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to TRP channel biology or who lack TRP-related genetic changes are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new drug targets and treatments for pain, sensory disorders, and some cancers linked to TRP channel dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Recent structural studies of TRP channels have made progress, but understanding of disease-related variants and inhibition mechanisms remains incomplete, so this work builds on prior advances while addressing novel gaps.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sobolevsky, Alexander — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Sobolevsky, Alexander
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.