How Mitochondria Move Inside Cells and Affect Cell Movement
Mitochondrial positioning regulates redox-signaling during cell migration
This research explores how tiny powerhouses called mitochondria move within cells and how this movement helps cells change shape and travel.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Vermont & St Agric College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Burlington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11112464 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our cells rely on mitochondria, their energy factories, to move and function properly. This project looks at how these mitochondria are carefully positioned inside cells by special proteins and structures. We've found that when mitochondria don't move to the right places, cells have trouble changing shape and moving. This work aims to understand the specific signals that allow mitochondria to guide cell movement, which is important for many body processes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational laboratory research does not directly involve patient participation, but its findings could eventually inform future treatments for conditions involving cell migration.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention will not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding how mitochondria control cell movement could help us learn more about diseases where cell movement goes wrong, like cancer spreading or wound healing.
How similar studies have performed: Our laboratory has already shown that disrupting mitochondrial movement reduces cell migration, and preliminary data suggests a link between mitochondrial distribution and cellular signaling.
Where this research is happening
Burlington, United States
- University of Vermont & St Agric College — Burlington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cunniff, Brian — University of Vermont & St Agric College
- Study coordinator: Cunniff, Brian
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.