How E-cadherin helps cells sense and respond to mechanical force
Molecular Mechanisms Underlying E-cadherin Mechanotransduction
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF IOWA · NIH-11333834
This work looks at how the cell-surface protein E-cadherin and the energy regulator AMPK help cells use energy to remodel their internal skeleton when they are pushed or pulled, a process relevant to cancer and heart muscle disease.
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-11333834 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores how mechanical force on E-cadherin activates the energy sensor AMPK and drives local glucose use to power actin cytoskeleton changes. Scientists use lab-based cell experiments and imaging to map where glycolysis and actin polymerization happen inside cells. They will also test the effects of uncoupling mechanotransduction and metabolism in animal models to see consequences for tissue physiology. The goal is to connect molecular events at cell junctions to whole-tissue outcomes that matter in diseases like cancer and cardiomyopathy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll patients and is focused on laboratory and animal experiments, though its findings may be relevant to people with cancers or cardiomyopathies in the future.
Not a fit: Because the grant supports basic lab and animal research rather than a clinical trial, patients should not expect immediate personal medical benefit or enrollment opportunities from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal new molecular targets to limit cancer invasion or protect heart tissue by linking how cells feel force to how they get energy.
How similar studies have performed: Prior preclinical work has shown AMPK activation by force, so this proposal builds on established laboratory findings while probing new questions about localized metabolism and in vivo effects.
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