Understanding Cell Signals for Healthy Growth and Repair

Cell signaling in development and regeneration

NIH-funded research Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11061064

This project looks at how cells talk to each other to control growth and repair, which is important for preventing birth defects and cancers.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUt Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Dallas, United States)
Project IDNIH-11061064 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Our bodies rely on cells communicating properly for healthy growth and repair, from when we are embryos to maintaining our tissues as adults. When this communication goes wrong, it can lead to serious conditions like birth defects and various cancers. This research aims to uncover the fundamental ways these cell signals work, focusing on specific pathways like Hedgehog, Hippo, and BMP. By understanding these basic mechanisms, we hope to learn how to correct faulty cell communication and potentially develop new ways to treat diseases. We combine different scientific methods, including genetics and cell biology, to explore these vital processes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future clinical applications may benefit individuals with birth defects or certain cancers like medulloblastoma and basal cell carcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options would not directly benefit from this basic science research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the causes of birth defects and cancers, potentially paving the way for future treatments.

How similar studies have performed: This research builds upon existing knowledge of cell signaling pathways, but it explores specific molecular links and mechanisms that are still not fully understood.

Where this research is happening

Dallas, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.