Cell movement and stress in tissues: how physical forces shape cancer and aging
Official title: Cell mechanoresponses in physiologically relevant microenvironments
Funded at Auburn University at Auburn · NIH-11345698 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how the physical environment and pressure within tissues influence how cells move, survive, and communicate, with a focus on cancer and aging.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Auburn University at Auburn NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Auburn, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 10, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $373,063 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM147101-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11345698 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with cancers or conditions where cell movement and tissue pressure play a role, or those contributing tissue samples for related studies.
✕Less likely to help
People not affected by cancer or conditions involving tissue mechanics may see limited direct benefits.
What this research studies
This project uses advanced devices and techniques to mimic the physical conditions cells experience in the body, such as stiffness, confinement, and pressure. By applying optogenetic tools, single-cell gene profiling, and computer simulations, the study aims to uncover how mechanical cues translate into biochemical signals that drive movement and viability. The goal is to identify new ideas for therapies that could prevent cancer spread and related diseases by targeting these mechanical pathways. The research is grounded in prior work and will run over five years at Auburn University to understand pressure-related effects across relevant tissue-like environments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to new strategies to limit cancer metastasis and treat diseases linked to abnormal cell movement and pressure responses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that mechanical cues can influence cell behavior, but this project tests pressure effects in physiologically relevant environments in depth.
Where this research is happening
-
Auburn University at Auburn
Auburn, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mistriotis, Panagiotis — Auburn University at Auburn
- Study coordinator: Mistriotis, Panagiotis
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Hierarchical molecular test kit to detect and quantify C. difficile and C. perfringens in animal feed and livestock
A new, layered molecular panel helps detect and precisely measure harmful bacteria in animal feed and livestock to protect veterinary health and food safety.
-
DNA sequencing tool to improve veterinary bacterial diagnostics
Auburn University plans to buy a DNA sequencing instrument to quickly and accurately identify bacteria in animals and animal-related samples.
-
Advancing Pan-RAS Inhibitors to Prevent Colorectal Cancer
Researchers are testing a new pan-RAS drug candidate to prevent colorectal cancer development in preclinical models, with the goal of stopping tumor growth before it starts.
-
Good Nights Sleep for Kids and Parents
A randomized trial at a US university to help families with 0-11 year olds sleep better by improving sleep habits and the sleep environment, especially in low-income households.
-
Rewilding Immunology: How Diverse Mice Predict Human Immune Responses to Vaccines
A scientist team at Auburn University will study how genetically diverse mice respond to nanoparticle-based vaccines to better predict what might happen in people.
-
Could brain inflammation cause loss of pleasure and motivation?
Looks at whether blood and brain inflammation are tied to reduced pleasure and motivation in teens and adults.
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.