How cell nuclei move and squeeze through tight spaces
Mechanisms of Nuclear Migration
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS · NIH-11251557
Researchers are looking at how cells move and reshape their nuclei in ways that affect cancer spread and immune cell movement.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DAVIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11251557 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient perspective, scientists use tiny roundworms (C. elegans) and cell models to study proteins that link the nucleus to the cell skeleton and control nuclear position and shape. They focus on LINC complexes and related proteins (such as KASH/UNC-83, SUN proteins, and lamins) and test different protein versions to see which molecular motors they engage. The team uses genetics, live-cell imaging, and biochemical assays to watch nuclei move and squeeze through narrow constrictions. Their goal is to uncover cellular mechanisms that underlie immune cell migration and cancer cell invasion.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This grant does not enroll patients; it is laboratory research using worms and cellular systems rather than a clinical trial.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments are unlikely to benefit directly because this is basic, preclinical research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new targets to block cancer cells from spreading or to help immune cells reach sites of disease more effectively.
How similar studies have performed: Previous cell- and model-organism studies have identified components of nuclear-movement machinery, but applying these findings to cancer therapy is still early and largely untested.
Where this research is happening
DAVIS, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS — DAVIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: STARR, DANIEL A — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS
- Study coordinator: STARR, DANIEL A
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.
Conditions: Cancers