Understanding how cells move and respond to signals in the body

Decoding dynamic interplay between signaling and membranes in chemotaxis by molecular actuators

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11077688

This study is looking at how cells move towards chemical signals, which is important for things like healing wounds and understanding cancer, and it will use new tools to see how changes in the cell's outer layer affect their movement.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11077688 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex processes of chemotaxis, which is how cells move in response to chemical signals. It aims to uncover the interactions between biochemical reactions and the physical properties of cell membranes that influence cell migration. By developing advanced molecular tools, the study will explore how changes in membrane shape and structure affect how cells detect and respond to signals, which is crucial for processes like wound healing and cancer progression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with conditions that involve abnormal cell migration, such as cancer patients or those with arthritis.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to cell migration or signaling, such as purely genetic disorders without a chemotactic component, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating diseases related to abnormal cell movement, such as cancer and arthritis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell signaling and movement, but this approach of integrating membrane mechanics with signaling is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: cancer metastasis, Cancers

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.