Exploring the differences in cell behavior and characteristics
Official title: New approaches for investigating the causes and consequences of cellular heterogeneity
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11004125 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at why cells behave differently from one another, focusing on how genetics and the environment play a role, and it aims to help us better understand human diseases and how tumors develop.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $527,871 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM152106-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004125 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with genetic variations or diseases that exhibit significant cellular heterogeneity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions that do not involve cellular heterogeneity or genetic variations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the various factors that contribute to differences in cell behavior and characteristics, known as biological heterogeneity. It aims to understand how these differences arise from genetic variations and environmental influences, and how they affect the functioning of cells and organisms. The research employs advanced techniques like deep mutational scanning to analyze the impact of numerous genetic variants on cell and protein functions. By gaining insights into these processes, the research seeks to improve our understanding of human diseases and the evolution of tumors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better strategies for treating diseases by understanding how cellular differences affect treatment responses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar approaches has shown success in understanding genetic variations and their effects on cellular functions.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fowler, Douglas M — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Fowler, Douglas M
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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.