NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding how cells die during cell division delays

Official title: Parameters that determine cell fate during mitotic arrest

Funded at New Mexico State University Las Cruces · NIH-11057702 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how delays in cell division can cause cancer cells to die, especially by using certain drugs that affect this process, with the hope of finding better ways to treat cancer and help patients respond more effectively to their therapies.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew Mexico State University Las Cruces
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Las Cruces, United States)
Project startMay 10, 2022
Project endMarch 31, 2026
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$143,997
NIH project number5R16GM145387-04
Project IDNIH-11057702 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients with aggressive and hormone-independent cancers who are undergoing treatment with anti-mitotic drugs.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancers do not involve mitotic spindle disruption may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind cell death when cells experience delays during division, particularly focusing on the role of the spindle assembly checkpoint. It utilizes advanced imaging techniques and biochemical methods to explore how certain drugs, which disrupt normal cell division, can lead to more consistent cell death responses in cancer cells. By targeting specific proteins and signaling pathways, the research aims to enhance the effectiveness of existing cancer therapies. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how their cancer cells respond to treatment, potentially leading to improved therapeutic strategies.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments that result in higher rates of cancer cell death.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting the mitotic spindle for cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

  • New Mexico State University Las Cruces
    Las Cruces, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Shuster, Charles Bradley — New Mexico State University Las Cruces
  • Study coordinator: Shuster, Charles Bradley

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.