Understanding how cell signals affect movement and structure in cells
Signal Integration from Membranes to the Actin Cytoskeleton
This study is looking at how certain proteins help cells move and respond to their environment, which is important for things like immune health and brain development, and it aims to find out how changes in these proteins might lead to diseases like cancer and immune disorders, so that new treatments can be developed for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Iowa State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ames, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11100257 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which actin cytoskeleton regulation influences critical cellular processes such as migration, immune responses, and neuron development. The focus is on the Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Protein (WASP) family, which connects signals from cell membranes to actin polymerization. By utilizing advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, the research aims to uncover how mutations in these proteins contribute to diseases, including cancer and immune disorders. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatment strategies for conditions linked to these cellular processes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with genetic mutations affecting the WASP family proteins or related conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to actin cytoskeleton regulation or those without genetic mutations in the WASP family may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapies for diseases related to cell movement and signaling, such as cancer and immune disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the roles of WASP family proteins in various diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Ames, United States
- Iowa State University — Ames, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Baoyu — Iowa State University
- Study coordinator: Chen, Baoyu
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.