Investigating how energy production affects cell movement during embryo development
Official title: Localized mitochondrial metabolic activity in Xenopus mesendoderm cells undergoing collective cell migration
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10914028 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how energy in cells helps embryos develop properly, especially during a key stage called gastrulation, by exploring how certain cells move together and how their energy production supports that movement, which could help us understand birth defects caused by cell migration issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 15, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $38,401 |
| NIH project number | 5F30HD111307-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10914028 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are expectant parents concerned about congenital malformations or those with a family history of such conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or do not have a family history of congenital malformations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the energy dynamics in cells that are crucial for embryo development, particularly during a phase called gastrulation. It examines how certain cells, known as mesendoderm cells, move collectively and how their energy production, specifically mitochondrial activity, supports this movement. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to uncover the relationship between mechanical forces and metabolic signals that drive these essential cellular processes. The findings could provide insights into congenital malformations that arise from improper cell migration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention of congenital malformations in infants.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding cellular dynamics during development, but this specific focus on mitochondrial activity in mesendoderm cells is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pacheco, Gustavo Gavrel — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Pacheco, Gustavo Gavrel
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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.