How cells control BMP signals
Molecular mechanisms regulating and interpreting BMP signaling
This work looks at how cells control BMP signals that affect bone, heart, and cancer-related conditions to help people with skeletal, cardiovascular, or cancer problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11247085 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient point of view, researchers use a tiny worm model to find genes and proteins that change BMP signaling, a pathway tied to bone, heart, and some cancers. They run sensitive genetic screens to pick out conserved modulators, then use advanced imaging and protein studies to see where and how those modulators act in cells. The team combines molecular genetics with proteomics to map how signals are sent and interpreted in specific tissues. Findings aim to reveal points where therapies might correct BMP-related problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with inherited bone disorders, BMP-linked cardiovascular conditions, or cancers where BMP signaling is suspected may be future beneficiaries and good candidates for follow-up clinical research.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to BMP signaling or those seeking immediate clinical treatments are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory-based research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new molecular targets for therapies that restore proper BMP signaling in bone, cardiovascular disease, or cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory studies in animals and cells have identified BMP regulators, but turning those discoveries into human treatments remains early and largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Ithaca, United States
- Cornell University — Ithaca, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Jun — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Liu, Jun
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.