Understanding how cells move and respond to signals in the body
Official title: Decoding dynamic interplay between signaling and membranes in chemotaxis by molecular actuators
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11077688 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 4, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $619,060 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM149329-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11077688 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with conditions that involve abnormal cell migration, such as cancer patients or those with arthritis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cell migration or signaling, such as purely genetic disorders without a chemotactic component, may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Inoue, Takanari — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Inoue, Takanari
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.