How cells bend their outer layer to take in and release tiny packages
Biophysical modeling of inward and outward membrane curvature generation
Researchers will build computer and math models to understand how cells bend their outer membrane to swallow material or bud off tiny vesicles, which matters for people with cancer, heart, and nerve conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11402606 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses mathematical and computer models to simulate how cell membranes curve inward (to take up cargo) and outward (to release extracellular vesicles). The models will include lipid and protein composition, the actin cortex beneath the membrane, and elements of the extracellular matrix such as the glycocalyx to better reflect real cell environments. Model predictions will be compared with laboratory findings and used to explore how different proteins and membrane components generate the mechanical forces that bend membranes. The work aims to explain basic mechanisms that, when defective, contribute to cancer, inflammation, altered neurotransmission, and heart disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This grant does not enroll patients; it focuses on computational and laboratory work on cells and membranes rather than clinical participation.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate new treatments should not expect direct personal benefit, since this is basic research rather than a clinical trial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal fundamental mechanisms that point to new diagnostic markers or treatment targets for cancer, heart disease, and neurological conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous biophysical models have provided useful insights, but combining membrane composition, actin cortex interactions, and the glycocalyx in an integrated model is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rangamani, Padmini — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Rangamani, Padmini
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.