NIH-funded research R15 grant

How non-centrosomal microtubules control cell movement and shape

Official title: Control of cell polarity and migration by non-centrosomal microtubules

Funded at Saint Joseph's University · NIH-10974336 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain tiny structures in our cells help them move and stay organized, which is important for understanding diseases like heart disease and cancer, and it’s for anyone interested in how our cells work and respond to health challenges.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSaint Joseph's University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2020
Project endAugust 31, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$429,352
NIH project number2R15GM139063-03
Project IDNIH-10974336 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to abnormal cell migration, such as cancer patients or those with heart diseases.

Less likely to help

Patients with stable, non-migratory conditions or those not affected by cell migration-related diseases may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of non-centrosomal microtubules in regulating cell migration and polarity, which are crucial for various biological processes and responses to diseases like heart disease and cancer. By examining how these microtubules interact with actin filaments and focal adhesion complexes, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that enable cells to move directionally. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze the dynamics of cytoskeletal proteins and their coordination during cell movement, providing insights into fundamental cellular functions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases involving abnormal cell migration, such as cancer metastasis and cardiac disorders.

How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on non-centrosomal microtubules is relatively novel, previous research has shown success in understanding the role of cytoskeletal dynamics in cell migration.

Where this research is happening

  • Saint Joseph's University
    Philadelphia, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Myers, Kenneth Albert — Saint Joseph's University
  • Study coordinator: Myers, Kenneth Albert

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.