Understanding how certain proteins help form organs during development
Official title: GPCR signaling during embryonic organ formation
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11032886 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in our cells help shape organs during the early stages of development, using fruit fly embryos to learn more about how these proteins work, which could also help us understand issues like cancer later on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $367,903 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM145873-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11032886 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the biological mechanisms of development and diseases related to GPCRs, particularly those under 21 years old.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by conditions related to GPCR signaling or those over 21 years old may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) in the formation of organs during embryonic development using the Drosophila embryo as a model. By analyzing the Tre1 receptor, which is involved in critical processes like germ cell navigation and immune response, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind these functions. The study employs genetic tools and visual techniques to observe how GPCRs influence cell behavior and development. This could lead to a better understanding of how these receptors contribute to both normal development and cancer metastasis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into developmental processes and potential therapeutic targets for diseases related to GPCR dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding GPCR functions, but this specific approach using Drosophila embryos is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Andrew, Deborah J — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Andrew, Deborah J
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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.