How cells build their tiny sensors, called cilia
Understanding the molecular mechanisms of cilia formation
This research explores how tiny cell parts called cilia are built, because problems with cilia can lead to conditions like obesity and vision loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11139650 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Most of our cells have tiny, hair-like structures called cilia that act like antennas, sensing signals from outside the cell. When these cilia don't form correctly or stop working, it can lead to a group of conditions known as ciliopathies, which include problems like obesity and retinal degeneration. This project aims to understand the precise molecular steps our cells take to build these important cilia. Researchers are identifying specific markers and processes involved in the very first stages of cilia formation. Learning these fundamental steps could open doors to new ways of helping people with ciliopathies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with ciliopathies, such as those experiencing obesity or retinal degeneration, might eventually benefit from this foundational research.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct participation in a clinical trial for their condition would not directly benefit from this foundational laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this basic understanding of cilia formation could lead to new strategies for treating conditions like obesity and retinal degeneration that are linked to cilia problems.
How similar studies have performed: This foundational work builds upon previous discoveries about specific molecules involved in cilia formation, but the overall mechanisms are still being uncovered.
Where this research is happening
Oklahoma City, United States
- University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr — Oklahoma City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kanie, Tomoharu — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Kanie, Tomoharu
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.