Tools to control RhoA signaling in cells
Single-component optogenetic tools to bidirectionally control RhoA in mechanotransduction
This study is exploring new ways to use light to control a specific pathway in cells that helps them respond to their surroundings, which could lead to better understanding of how tissues grow and heal.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11163962 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative optogenetic tools that allow scientists to control the RhoA signaling pathway in cells. By using light to activate or deactivate RhoA, researchers aim to better understand how cells respond to mechanical stimuli and how they communicate with their environment. The study will involve various physiological assays to assess the effectiveness of these tools in manipulating cell behavior and will benchmark their performance against existing technologies. This approach could provide insights into cellular processes that are crucial for tissue development and repair.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with conditions related to tissue repair or cancer where cell signaling plays a critical role.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to cellular mechanotransduction or those not requiring manipulation of cell signaling may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for manipulating cell behavior in regenerative medicine and cancer treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success with optogenetic approaches in controlling cellular processes, indicating a promising avenue for this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boerckel, Joel D — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Boerckel, Joel D
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.