Understanding how cells develop in the C. elegans embryo
Official title: Decoding lineage and fate specification in the C. elegans embryo
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11053531 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how tiny worms called C. elegans develop from embryos into specialized cells by looking closely at how their genes work, which could help us understand similar processes in other living things, including humans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $433,753 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM153497-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11053531 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals interested in developmental biology and genetic research, particularly those affected by or studying developmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to developmental biology or those not interested in genetic research may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the developmental processes of the C. elegans embryo by utilizing advanced single-cell techniques to analyze gene expression across all cells. By creating detailed atlases of gene and protein expression, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that dictate how cells differentiate and specialize during early development. The research combines innovative methods like automated lineage tracing with reverse genetics to enhance our understanding of embryonic development, particularly during critical stages such as gastrulation. This work could provide insights that are relevant not only to C. elegans but also to broader biological processes in other organisms, including humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a deeper understanding of developmental biology, potentially informing treatments for developmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research utilizing single-cell approaches in developmental biology has shown promising results, indicating that this methodology is both effective and innovative.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Murray, John Isaac — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Murray, John Isaac
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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.