Understanding how cells organize themselves and grow, especially in cancer
Studies on cell polarity, chemotropism, and cell cycle control
This research explores how cells organize their internal parts and move, which is important for understanding how cancer spreads.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11131067 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies' cells need to organize themselves and move in specific ways to function correctly, like when they form specialized shapes or migrate to new locations. This project looks at how cells achieve this organization, called cell polarity, and how they decide which direction to move. We are particularly interested in how problems with cell polarity can contribute to diseases like cancer, where cells might move and spread abnormally. By studying these fundamental processes, we hope to uncover new ways to understand and potentially address cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit future patients with cancers, particularly those involving metastasis.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention will not receive benefit from participating in this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this basic research could lead to a deeper understanding of how cancer cells spread, potentially paving the way for new treatments that target cell migration.
How similar studies have performed: While core mechanisms of cell polarity are known, this research addresses many unsolved questions about how cells precisely control their shape and movement, suggesting a novel approach to these complex problems.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lew, Daniel J — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Lew, Daniel J
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 below.