Understanding how cells make decisions during development
Geometric and mechanical control of developmental Yap signaling
This study looks at how cells in early mouse embryos decide what roles to take on as they grow, focusing on how they respond to their surroundings, which could help us understand issues like developmental problems and cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Princeton University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11059178 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how individual cells in developing tissues interpret their environment to make crucial decisions about their fate. By studying preimplantation mouse embryos, the researchers aim to understand the mechanisms that guide cells in acquiring specific roles, which is essential for proper organ and tissue formation. The study focuses on the Hippo signaling pathway and its effector, YAP, which responds to mechanical signals and influences gene expression related to cell fate. This approach could reveal insights into developmental abnormalities and cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic predispositions to developmental abnormalities or cancers related to cell signaling pathways.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to developmental signaling or those who are not affected by cancer or developmental disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing developmental disorders and treating cancers by targeting the mechanisms of cell fate determination.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding cell signaling pathways and their implications in development and cancer, indicating that this approach is built on established scientific principles.
Where this research is happening
Princeton, UNITED STATES
- Princeton University — Princeton, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Posfai, Eszter — Princeton University
- Study coordinator: Posfai, Eszter
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.