Understanding how cells communicate and grow using light-based sensors
Official title: Sensing and controlling cell signaling events with bioluminescent kinase sensors and gene circuits
Funded at Central Michigan University · NIH-11021490 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain signals in our cells help them grow and divide, using special tools to see these processes in action, which could help us understand diseases better and find new ways to treat them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Central Michigan University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mount Pleasant, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $366,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM156968-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11021490 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to cell growth and signaling, such as cancer or other proliferative disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cell signaling or growth, such as purely metabolic disorders, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the intricate signaling events that regulate cell behavior, particularly how growth factors and the cell cycle influence cell growth and division. By developing bioluminescent kinase sensors, the project aims to monitor these signaling processes in real-time, allowing researchers to observe how cells respond to various stimuli. The approach involves manipulating these signals to gain insights into both normal cell function and disease progression, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating diseases related to cell growth and signaling.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using similar bioluminescent techniques to study cell signaling, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Petersen, Eric David — Central Michigan University
- Study coordinator: Petersen, Eric David
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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.