Understanding how cells organize their actin networks
Official title: Actin Cytoskeleton Network Self-Organization
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-10842871 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how cells build and manage their internal structures, called actin networks, which are important for things like moving and dividing, using tiny organisms like yeast and worms to learn more about how these networks work and what they do.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $351,769 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM153234-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10842871 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the cellular mechanisms underlying development and disease, particularly those with conditions related to cell motility or division.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cellular actin dynamics or those not involved in developmental biology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how cells create and maintain diverse actin cytoskeleton networks that are crucial for processes like cell movement and division. By studying model organisms such as fission yeast and C. elegans embryos, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that govern the interactions and organization of these actin networks. The approach involves examining how cells allocate actin components to different networks, which helps in understanding their unique functions and identities within the cell. This could lead to insights into cellular behavior and development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of cellular processes that are fundamental to health and disease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding actin dynamics in model organisms, indicating that this approach is grounded in established scientific principles.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kovar, David R — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Kovar, David R
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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.