NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

How cells respond to signals from their environment

Official title: Regulation of Cellular Behavior in Response to Extracellular Cues

Funded at University of Maine Orono · NIH-11080311 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how muscle cells react to different signals around them, which could help us learn more about muscle health and diseases, and it's being done by a team of early career scientists using tiny fish and yeast to explore these important processes.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Maine Orono
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Orono, United States)
Project startApril 5, 2023
Project endMarch 31, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$2,166,759
NIH project number5P20GM144265-03
Project IDNIH-11080311 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing muscle degeneration or related aging disorders.

Less likely to help

Patients with acute injuries unrelated to aging or muscle degeneration may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how cells interpret and respond to various signals from their surroundings, focusing on muscle cells and their behaviors such as migration and regeneration. It involves multiple projects led by early career scientists that explore the mechanisms of cell signaling, including how viruses can alter cell functions. The research utilizes model organisms like zebrafish and yeast to understand these processes better. By examining these cellular responses, the research aims to uncover new insights into muscle health and disease.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for aging-related muscle diseases and enhance muscle regeneration.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cell signaling and its implications for muscle health, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Maine Orono
    Orono, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Henry, Clarissa a — University of Maine Orono
  • Study coordinator: Henry, Clarissa a

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.