Understanding how cilia move and function in the body
Mechanoregulation of Ciliary Motility
['FUNDING_R01'] · HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL · NIH-11063149
This study is looking at how tiny hair-like structures called cilia move, which is important for things like helping sperm swim and clearing mucus from our lungs, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how problems with cilia can affect health and lead to new treatments.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11063149 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that control the movement of cilia, which are tiny hair-like structures essential for various bodily functions, including the movement of sperm and the clearing of mucus from the respiratory tract. By studying a model organism, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, researchers aim to uncover the intricate relationships between cilia structure and their motility. The project employs advanced imaging techniques to visualize the molecular components involved in ciliary movement, providing insights that could lead to new treatments for conditions related to ciliary dysfunction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic respiratory diseases or fertility issues related to ciliary function.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to ciliary function or those who do not have chronic respiratory or fertility issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for respiratory diseases and fertility issues linked to ciliary dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding ciliary function using similar model organisms, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BROWN, ALAN — HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL
- Study coordinator: BROWN, ALAN
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.