Understanding how cells respond to their environment, light, and chemical signals
Molecular mechanisms of signaling systems responsive to light, redox and chemical environment
This work explores the fundamental ways cells, including those of disease-causing bacteria and our own bodies, sense and react to their surroundings, light, and chemical changes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11093332 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies and the bacteria that cause illnesses like gastric cancer and Lyme disease rely on complex communication systems to function. This project aims to uncover the detailed molecular steps involved in how cells receive and process signals from their environment, including light and chemical cues. By understanding these basic mechanisms, especially in how bacteria move and how our internal clocks work, we hope to learn more about how diseases develop and how our bodies operate. We are particularly interested in the tiny molecular machines that help cells move and respond to changes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This is a basic science project, so there are no direct patient participation opportunities at this time, but future research stemming from this work could benefit patients with infections or circadian rhythm disorders.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by bacterial infections like cholera, gastric cancer, or Lyme, or conditions related to circadian rhythms, may not directly benefit from this specific basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this foundational knowledge could lead to new ways to disrupt disease-causing bacteria or to better understand and treat conditions related to our body's internal clock.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon decades of successful research into cell signaling and bacterial movement, continuing efforts to refine our understanding of these complex systems.
Where this research is happening
Ithaca, United States
- Cornell University — Ithaca, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Crane, Brian R — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Crane, Brian R
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.