How cells' gene-control switches create temporary aging-like states linked to cancer and tissue disease
Transcription Factor Network-Mediated Modulation of Transitional Senescence States
This project looks at how proteins that control genes can push cells into a temporary aging-like state that may contribute to cancer, osteoarthritis, or fibrosis and could point to new treatments for people with those conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11175501 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team studies how groups of gene-controlling proteins (transcription factors) keep a cell's identity but can be rewired by signals to produce a transitional, low-function 'senescent' state. They will map changes in these transcription factor networks using laboratory cell models and molecular tools, and may include human tissue samples related to cancer, osteoarthritis, or fibrosis. The researchers will test whether steering cells out of the transitional senescent state can prevent harmful outcomes like cell death or stabilization of disease-associated states. Results are intended to reveal molecular targets or strategies that could be developed into future treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers, osteoarthritis, or fibrotic conditions — especially those able to provide tissue samples or participate in future clinical work — would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without cancer, osteoarthritis, or fibrotic diseases or those not eligible to provide samples or join related future trials are unlikely to benefit directly from this grant's work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify ways to prevent or reverse harmful cell states and lead to new treatments for cancers and age-related tissue diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Related lab and animal studies targeting senescent cells and their regulators have shown promise, but translating those findings into widely effective human treatments remains early and limited.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martinez Zamudio, Ricardo Ivan — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Martinez Zamudio, Ricardo Ivan
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.