Understanding how cells decide their fate using advanced modeling and synthetic biology

Reprogramming cell-fate decisions through predictive modeling and synthetic biology

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10904714

This study looks at how yeast cells decide what to do when they get damaged, using a mix of biology and computer modeling to see how their genes interact, which could help us understand similar processes in human health and disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10904714 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how cells, specifically yeast, make decisions about their fate when faced with damage or deterioration. By combining synthetic biology with computational modeling, the study aims to uncover the complex interactions between genes that influence these decisions. The researchers focus on genetically identical yeast cells to observe how they can take different paths towards cell death, depending on various internal and external factors. This approach allows for a detailed understanding of cellular processes that could be relevant to human health and disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with conditions related to cellular deterioration, such as cancer patients or those with degenerative diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with acute conditions that do not involve cellular fate decisions or deterioration may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing cell health and longevity, potentially impacting treatments for various diseases, including cancers.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using synthetic biology and computational modeling to understand cellular processes, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Conditions Cancers
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.