How cells control their size during development
Official title: The coordination of cell size control and cell cycle regulation at developmental extremes
Funded at Dartmouth College · NIH-10933430 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how fruit fly cells keep their size in check during important growth stages, which could help us understand similar processes in other living things, including humans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dartmouth College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hanover, United States) |
| Project start | September 22, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $410,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150853-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10933430 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with conditions related to abnormal cell growth, such as cancer patients.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cell growth related conditions, such as metabolic disorders or infections, may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which cells measure and maintain their sizes during critical developmental stages using fruit flies (Drosophila) as a model. It focuses on two key processes: the rapid divisions of the early embryo, which grows without increasing in size, and the growth of the oocyte, which accumulates materials from nurse cells without dividing. The study aims to understand how the ratio of the nucleus to cytoplasm influences cell cycle regulation and growth, particularly during the mid-blastula transition. By uncovering these cellular processes, the research could provide insights into fundamental biological principles that may apply to other organisms, including humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of cell growth and division, potentially informing cancer treatments and regenerative medicine.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding cell cycle regulation and growth control in model organisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Dartmouth College
Hanover, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Amodeo, Amanda a — Dartmouth College
- Study coordinator: Amodeo, Amanda a
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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.