How cells change shape during cell division
Mechanisms of cell shape change in cytokinesis
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-11289369
This work looks at the tiny molecular machines that pinch a cell into two and how problems in that process relate to cancers and some blood disorders.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11289369 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From my point of view, researchers are watching how a dividing cell builds and tightens a ring of proteins that pinches it into two daughter cells. They focus on actin, myosin, regulatory switches like RhoA, and connector proteins such as anillin and septins. The team uses high-resolution microscopy, biochemical and biophysical experiments in animal and cell models, and computer models to map feedback loops and mesoscale dynamics. Their approach aims to reveal which steps can go wrong in diseases of abnormal cell growth.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers or inherited/secondary neutropenias who are interested in contributing tissue or biospecimens to basic research, or who may join future trials targeting cell-division processes, would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate changes to their treatment or those with conditions unrelated to cell proliferation are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this lab-focused work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could point to new drug targets or strategies to correct abnormal cell division in cancers and certain blood disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Many labs have identified parts of the cytokinesis machinery and mapped key proteins, but translating those basic discoveries into patient therapies remains largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL — CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MADDOX, AMY SHAUB — UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL
- Study coordinator: MADDOX, AMY SHAUB
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