Understanding how cells guide nerve growth in the brain
Official title: Planar cell polarity control of axon guidance
Funded at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center · NIH-10892878 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain signals in cells help nerve cells grow in the right direction in the spinal cord, which is important for movement and posture, using zebrafish embryos to see this process in action.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $597,738 |
| NIH project number | 5R37NS131117-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10892878 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions that impact motor function and coordination.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to nerve growth or signaling pathways may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific signaling pathways in cells influence the direction of nerve growth in the spinal cord, which is crucial for coordinating movement and posture. By using zebrafish embryos, researchers can visualize the behavior of nerve cells and their growth cones in real-time. The study focuses on the Planar Cell Polarity (PCP) pathway, which helps cells communicate and orient themselves for proper migration. The goal is to fill gaps in knowledge about how these signals affect the growth of nerve cells as they navigate towards the brain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into nerve development and potential treatments for conditions affecting movement and coordination.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell signaling pathways in nerve growth, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moens, Cecilia B — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Moens, Cecilia B
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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.