How cell shape affects cancer signaling

Data-driven mechanistic models of morphology-controlled Ras oncogenic signaling

NIH-funded research Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11054483

This study is looking at how the shape of cancer cells affects how they grow and survive, with the hope of finding new ways to improve cancer diagnosis and treatment for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUt Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Dallas, United States)
Project IDNIH-11054483 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the shape of cancer cells influences their signaling pathways, which are crucial for their survival and growth. By examining the relationship between cell geometry and oncogenic signaling, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better cancer diagnosis and treatment strategies. The approach combines experimental methods with computational modeling to analyze how different cell shapes impact cancer cell behavior, particularly in response to environmental changes and drug treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that exhibit distinct cell morphology changes, particularly those undergoing treatment for melanoma or other Ras-transformed cancers.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancer does not involve significant changes in cell morphology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer therapies by targeting the specific signaling pathways influenced by cell shape.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of cell morphology in cancer signaling, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Dallas, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.