Investigating how certain proteins affect cell adhesion and movement
P21-activated kinases in cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion signaling
This study is looking at how certain proteins called PAKs help cells stick together and to their surroundings, which is important for healing and tissue growth, and the findings could help develop new treatments for cancer by understanding how cancer cells move and attach.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10641867 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of P21-activated kinases (PAKs) in the adhesion of cells to each other and to their surrounding environment. By using a combination of structural, biochemical, and cellular techniques, the researchers aim to uncover how these proteins influence cell behavior, which is crucial for tissue formation and response to injuries. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how cancer cells migrate and adhere, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies. The study will involve detailed examinations of how PAKs interact with integrin and cadherin proteins, which are essential for cell adhesion.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancers or conditions that involve abnormal cell adhesion and migration.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to cell adhesion or those not diagnosed with cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve how we manage cancer and other diseases related to cell adhesion.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting cell adhesion mechanisms can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Calderwood, David a — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Calderwood, David a
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.