How the extracellular matrix influences cell movement in cancer and development
Official title: Regulation of a self-generated attractant gradient by the extracellular matrix
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10996721 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain cells move by exploring how their surroundings help guide them, using zebrafish embryos to see how a specific group of cells travels, which is important for things like development and cancer spread.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $73,828 |
| NIH project number | 1F32HD116497-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10996721 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by cancers that exhibit aggressive metastasis or those interested in the biological mechanisms of cell movement.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those not affected by diseases related to cell migration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how cells migrate by studying the role of the extracellular matrix in creating attractant gradients that guide cell movement. Using zebrafish embryos as a model, the research focuses on the migration of a specific group of cells known as the posterior lateral line primordium. The study aims to understand how these cells generate and maintain a signaling gradient that directs their movement, which is crucial for processes like embryonic development and cancer metastasis. By manipulating genetic factors and observing cell behavior in real-time, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind effective cell migration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for controlling cancer cell migration and improving treatments for cancer metastasis.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cell migration mechanisms, but this specific approach focusing on the extracellular matrix and its regulation of attractant gradients is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'keeffe, Catherine Ann — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: O'keeffe, Catherine Ann
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.