Understanding how cells decide their fate using synthetic biology and computer models
Reprogramming cell-fate decisions through predictive modeling and synthetic biology
This study looks at how yeast cells decide what to do when they get damaged, helping us understand why some cells might survive while others don’t, and it’s designed for anyone interested in how cells work and respond to challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11187778 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how cells, specifically yeast cells, 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 follow different paths leading to cell death, depending on various internal and external factors. This approach allows for a more efficient exploration of cellular processes that are difficult to study in mammals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with conditions related to cellular damage or 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, which may have implications for treating various diseases, including cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using synthetic biology and computational models to understand cellular processes, indicating that this approach is promising.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hao, Nan — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Hao, Nan
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.