Understanding how cells organize their microtubules
Official title: How to make a microtubule organizing center
Funded at Princeton University · NIH-11004680 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cells arrange tiny structures called microtubules that help keep them shaped right and working properly, and it’s especially focused on a special group of proteins that play a big role in this process, which could help us learn more about how cells function in health and disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Princeton University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $121,181 |
| NIH project number | 5K99GM152794-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004680 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with diseases related to cell division abnormalities, such as cancer or genetic disorders affecting cellular structure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cellular organization or microtubule function may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which cells organize microtubules, which are crucial for maintaining cell shape, transporting materials, and ensuring proper cell division. The study focuses on the γ-tubulin ring complex, a key player in microtubule formation, and how it is regulated at specialized sites called microtubule organizing centers (MTOCs). By using model organisms, the research aims to uncover the fundamental principles of microtubule organization and regulation, which could have implications for understanding various cellular processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into cellular functions that are critical for health and disease, potentially informing treatments for conditions related to cell division and organization.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar studies have successfully advanced our understanding of cellular structures and their functions.
Where this research is happening
-
Princeton University
Princeton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Travis, Sophie M. — Princeton University
- Study coordinator: Travis, Sophie M.
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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.