How mechanical forces affect cell movement and adhesion.
Official title: Mechanical Regulation of PKA Function in Cell Adhesion and Migration
Funded at University of Vermont & St Agric College · NIH-11143757 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how physical forces affect a protein called PKA that helps cells stick together and move, which could help us understand how cells react to their surroundings.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Vermont & St Agric College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Burlington, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $370,892 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM153456-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143757 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with conditions that involve abnormal cell adhesion or migration, such as certain cancers or fibrotic diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cell adhesion or migration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how mechanical forces influence the function of a specific protein kinase, PKA, in the context of cell adhesion and migration. By examining the interactions between PKA and talin, a key protein involved in cell adhesion, the study aims to understand how physical forces can regulate cellular signaling and behavior. The researchers will employ various biophysical and biochemical techniques to explore these mechanisms at the molecular level, which could provide insights into how cells respond to their environment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for manipulating cell behavior, which may have implications for treating diseases related to cell adhesion and migration, such as cancer.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown that understanding mechanotransduction can lead to significant advancements in cell biology and therapeutic strategies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Vermont & St Agric College
Burlington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Howe, Alan K — University of Vermont & St Agric College
- Study coordinator: Howe, Alan K
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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.