Understanding how cells change shape and function in three dimensions
Official title: Investigating the molecular regulation of cell protrusion function in 3D
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-10938440 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the shape of cells and the signals they receive work together to affect how they function, using special imaging techniques to better understand these processes, which could help in developing new treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $300,477 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM155310-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10938440 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve abnormal cell morphology or signaling, such as cancer or developmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable conditions that do not involve cellular dysfunction or morphological changes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex interactions between cell shape and function by examining how biochemical signals influence the cytoskeleton, which in turn affects cell morphology. By utilizing advanced live-cell fluorescence microscopy and computational geometry, the team aims to develop algorithms that can analyze the intricate feedback loops between cell structure and signaling pathways. This approach will help to visualize and understand the dynamic processes that govern cellular behavior in three-dimensional environments, which is crucial for potential therapeutic interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for targeting cellular processes in diseases where cell shape and function are disrupted.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using computational approaches to analyze cellular behavior, indicating that this methodology has the potential for impactful findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Driscoll, Meghan Katrien — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Driscoll, Meghan Katrien
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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.