Investigating how tumors cause muscle wasting in fruit flies
Assessing if tumor induced muscle cachexia is initiated by defects in Myosin Heavy Chain production and localization in a Drosophila tumor model
This study is looking at how muscle wasting happens in cancer patients by using fruit flies to understand what goes wrong with muscle proteins, which could help find ways to spot and treat this issue earlier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sam Houston State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Huntsville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10928229 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the mechanisms behind muscle cachexia, a severe condition often seen in cancer patients, using a fruit fly model. The team will examine how defects in Myosin Heavy Chain production and localization contribute to this condition, particularly during tumor development. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques and genetic manipulation, the researchers aim to identify early changes that lead to cachexia, which could help in developing earlier diagnostics and interventions for patients. The study also emphasizes the involvement of undergraduate researchers, promoting diversity in scientific research.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research are cancer patients experiencing or at risk of cachexia.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cancer-related muscle wasting conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnostics and potential interventions to prevent muscle wasting in cancer patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach using Drosophila models is established, the specific focus on Myosin Heavy Chain defects in relation to cachexia is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Huntsville, United States
- Sam Houston State University — Huntsville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Atkins, Mardelle Renee — Sam Houston State University
- Study coordinator: Atkins, Mardelle Renee
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.