How PTPRF controls Wnt signaling in the intestine
Study of PTPRF-Mediated Regulation of Wnt Signaling
This project looks at how the protein PTPRF influences Wnt signaling that keeps intestinal stem cells healthy, with implications for people at risk of colorectal cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11348864 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying how PTPRF affects Wnt signaling that controls growth and renewal of intestinal stem cells. They use Ptprf knockout mice, lab-grown intestinal crypts/organoids, CRISPR gene tools, and molecular analyses to track signaling changes and cell behavior. Bioinformatics and biochemical tests will help define where PTPRF acts relative to the β-catenin destruction complex. The work aims to connect basic molecular changes to early steps in colorectal cancer development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with colorectal cancer or those at high risk for colorectal cancer would be the most relevant patient group for future studies informed by this work.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to intestinal biology or Wnt-driven cancers are unlikely to directly benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify a new molecular target to prevent or treat colorectal cancer by correcting abnormal Wnt signaling.
How similar studies have performed: Many studies have targeted Wnt signaling with mixed clinical success, and PTPRF is a newly identified regulator so this specific approach remains exploratory.
Where this research is happening
Lexington, United States
- University of Kentucky — Lexington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gao, Tianyan — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Gao, Tianyan
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.