How signaling molecules guide early tissue patterning and cell movement
Multifunctional morphogens: patterning precision and mesoderm migration
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-11088960
Researchers use human stem-cell models to learn how cell signals steer early tissue patterning and movement, aiming to better understand causes of birth defects.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11088960 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This work grows human pluripotent stem cells in the lab to recreate early steps of development and a reproducible model of mesoderm migration. The team takes repeated molecular 'snapshots' using iterative staining to record many signals and fate markers in individual cells. They combine those experimental data with computational and theoretical tools to link each cell's signaling history to its behavior and fate. The focus on FGF and other signaling interactions helps reveal how complex signal patterns control development and where precision can fail.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This is primarily a lab-based project that does not enroll patients, though people affected by congenital birth defects or families interested in stem-cell donation could contact the research team about potential sample contributions or future clinical links.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments or short-term therapeutic benefit are unlikely to benefit directly from this basic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could clarify mechanisms behind congenital malformations and help point to new ways to diagnose, prevent, or treat some birth defects in the long term.
How similar studies have performed: Related stem-cell and single-cell signaling studies have improved understanding of developmental biology, but translating such findings into clinical interventions remains early and challenging.
Where this research is happening
ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR — ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HEEMSKERK, IDSE JOANNES — UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR
- Study coordinator: HEEMSKERK, IDSE JOANNES
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.