Changing how cells develop by studying nucleotide metabolism
Official title: Reprogramming cell fate through nucleotide metabolism
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-11110387 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the building blocks of DNA and RNA can change the way cells develop, specifically how they can turn into smooth muscle cells instead of fat cells, which could help find new treatments for related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $396,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM154684-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11110387 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with metabolic disorders or conditions related to adipogenesis and fat cell differentiation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have metabolic disorders or related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how nucleotide biosynthesis influences the fate of cells, particularly focusing on how it can shift cells from becoming fat cells to smooth muscle cells. The researchers will explore the mechanisms behind these changes both in controlled lab settings and in more complex living systems. By utilizing advanced techniques in metabolomics and metabolic flux analysis, they aim to uncover the metabolic pathways that trigger these cell fate transitions, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for conditions related to fat cell development and metabolism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolism to influence cell fate, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zaganjor, Elma — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Zaganjor, Elma
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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.