How cells sense and respond to mechanical forces through E-cadherin
Molecular Mechanisms Underlying E-cadherin Mechanotransduction
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF IOWA · NIH-11089069
This study is looking at how cells sense and respond to physical pressure using a special protein that helps them stick together, and it’s for anyone interested in how our cells work together under stress and how they use energy to do so.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF IOWA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11089069 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how cells detect mechanical forces using a protein called E-cadherin, which helps cells stick together. When force is applied, E-cadherin activates internal signaling pathways that lead to the formation of new connections between cells and the restructuring of the cell's internal framework, known as the actin cytoskeleton. The study focuses on understanding how these processes are fueled by energy from a key metabolic regulator called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). By exploring these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover how cellular responses to mechanical stress are linked to energy metabolism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to cellular adhesion and mechanotransduction, such as certain cancers or cardiomyopathies.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to cellular mechanics or those who do not have issues with cell adhesion may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how cellular mechanics influence health and disease, potentially improving treatments for conditions like cancer and heart disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mechanotransduction and its implications for cellular behavior, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF IOWA — IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DEMALI, KRIS A — UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
- Study coordinator: DEMALI, KRIS A
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