How cilia help cells respond to signals during development and disease

Signaling at the primary cilium in development and disease

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11026408

This study is looking at tiny structures on cells called primary cilia to see how they help send important signals that guide cell behavior during growth and disease, which could help us understand how problems with these cilia might lead to health issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DALLAS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11026408 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of primary cilia, which are tiny hair-like structures on cells, in transmitting signals that influence cell behavior during development and disease. The team aims to understand how these cilia maintain and propagate specific signals, particularly those related to the hedgehog pathway, which is crucial for proper tissue formation. By studying the mechanisms of ciliary signaling without disrupting their structure, the researchers hope to uncover how these signals regulate various developmental processes across different tissues. This work could lead to insights into how ciliary dysfunction contributes to diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions linked to ciliary dysfunction, such as ciliopathies or developmental disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to ciliary signaling or those who do not exhibit ciliary dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for conditions related to ciliary dysfunction, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding ciliary signaling, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

DALLAS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.