Understanding how cells process signals to respond to their environment

Elucidating the network design principles of biological signal processing

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10909806

This study looks at how cells, from tiny single-celled organisms to the ones in our bodies, detect and react to different signals around them, helping us understand how they make decisions and work together, especially when facing stress.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-10909806 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how cells, from single-celled organisms to those in our bodies, sense and respond to various signals in their environment. It focuses on biological signaling pathways that consist of sensors and proteins, which help cells process external signals and communicate internally. By studying how these pathways work, the research aims to uncover how cells make decisions and how these decisions impact the behavior of cellular communities. The project specifically examines the dynamics of signaling networks and transcription factors in response to environmental stress.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve cellular signaling abnormalities, such as certain cancers or metabolic disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to cellular signaling or those who do not have any cellular dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of cellular decision-making processes, potentially informing treatments for diseases related to cell signaling dysfunction.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding cellular signaling pathways, indicating that this approach has a solid foundation in existing scientific knowledge.

Where this research is happening

Madison, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.