# Signaling Mechanisms of TMEM16a Regulation

> **NIH NIH R01** · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · 2020 · $306,766

## Abstract

The TMEM16a gene encodes for a Ca2+-activated Cl- channel that is broadly expressed in eukaryotes and
plays an important role in human health and disease. TMEM16a channels are required for numerous
physiologic processes, including regulation of neuronal and cardiac excitability, uterine contractility,
regulation of electrolyte balance, and sensory transduction. Their importance is evidenced by the embryonic
lethality of TMEM16a knockout mice, and by the association of mutations in this channel with craniofacial
cancers. Aside from their Ca2+-dependent activation, it is not understood how these channels are regulated.
Our lab is interested in uncovering the signaling mechanisms that modulate the activity of TMEM16a
channels. Our goal is to understand the primary TMEM16a regulatory pathways, and to facilitate the
development of novel therapeutic options for treating disorders caused by TMEM16a deficiencies.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9998986
- **Project number:** 5R01GM125638-03
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- **Principal Investigator:** Anne E Carlson
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $306,766
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2018-09-25 → 2023-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9998986

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9998986, Signaling Mechanisms of TMEM16a Regulation (5R01GM125638-03). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-10 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9998986. Licensed CC0.

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