How cells sense physical forces through linker proteins
Force-sensitive Linker Proteins as Mediators of Cellular Mechanosensitivity
This project looks at whether proteins that sense mechanical forces inside cells contribute to cancer and artery disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11252783 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
As a patient, you can think of cells as tiny machines that feel pushes and pulls, and this team is studying special linker proteins that help cells sense those forces. They will develop molecular biosensors and lab methods to watch how force changes protein behavior inside living cells and tissues. The work uses cell systems and disease-relevant models tied to cancer and atherosclerosis to map the pathways that change when tissues stiffen or blood flow is altered. Over time the maps of these force-sensing pathways could point to new targets for treatments or diagnostics.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This grant does not currently enroll patients, but its findings could lead to future clinical studies involving people with cancer or atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Not a fit: Patients needing immediate treatment or those without cancer or ASCVD are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets for treatments or diagnostics for cancer and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab research shows mechanical forces influence cell behavior, but applying force-sensitive linker proteins and in-cell force biosensors toward therapies is a novel and emerging strategy.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hoffman, Brenton D — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Hoffman, Brenton D
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.