Understanding how cells move in response to signals
Official title: Decoding dynamic interplay between signaling and membranes in chemotaxis by molecular actuators
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11229924 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the signals that tell cells where to go interact with the cell's outer layer, which can change shape and affect movement, and it's aimed at helping us understand important things like healing wounds and how diseases like cancer and arthritis develop.
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) | $14,746 |
| NIH project number | 3R35GM149329-02S3 |
| Project ID | NIH-11229924 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to abnormal cell migration, such as cancer or arthritis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cell migration or those not experiencing significant cell signaling issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex interactions between biochemical signals and the physical properties of cell membranes that influence how cells migrate. By developing advanced molecular tools, the study aims to explore how changes in membrane shape and structure affect cell movement in response to chemical signals. This could provide insights into critical processes such as wound healing and the progression of diseases like cancer and arthritis, ultimately enhancing our understanding of cell behavior in various physiological and pathological contexts.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating diseases characterized by abnormal cell migration, such as cancer metastasis and arthritis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell migration through biochemical signaling, but this approach focusing on membrane mechanics 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
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Targeting hidden brain injuries in iTTP to improve long-term brain health
A researcher aims to find out how silent brain injuries in people with immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) happen, how they affect thinking and stroke risk, and how to prevent them.
-
Accelerated flap coverage for severe leg injuries: earlier reconstruction vs standard timing
This study tests whether doing early flap coverage after a severe leg injury lowers infection risk and improves healing for patients with open wounds and bone injury.
-
Placebo-controlled shunting for iNPH: does the surgery help with walking and balance?
A doctor-led trial at Johns Hopkins will test whether a shunt surgery improves walking and balance in older adults with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.
-
Omalizumab for COPD patients with allergen sensitization and exposure
A multicenter trial will test whether adding omalizumab helps people with COPD who are allergic to common indoor allergens and are exposed to them.
-
Johns Hopkins Total Worker Health Center focusing on mental health
A nationwide center at Johns Hopkins is working to improve mental health and well-being among workers by studying workplace health strategies and translating findings into practical tools.
-
Role of fat droplets in liver fat and inflammatory signals in NAFLD
A study at Johns Hopkins will explore how fat droplets in the liver influence molecules that drive inflammation and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults.
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.