Understanding how complex cells die and are cleared from the body

In Vivo Genetic Analysis of Compartmentalized Cell Elimination

NIH-funded research University of Texas Arlington · NIH-11099489

This study is looking at how certain cells, like brain cells, naturally die in specific parts of their structure, using tiny worms to learn more about the genes that control this process, which is important for healthy development and preventing diseases like cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Arlington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Arlington, United States)
Project IDNIH-11099489 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the process of programmed cell death, specifically focusing on how complex cells, like neurons, undergo elimination in a compartment-specific manner. By using the model organism C. elegans, the study aims to uncover the genetic mechanisms that regulate this process, which is crucial for normal development and preventing diseases such as cancer and autoimmune disorders. The research will explore the intricate architecture of cells and how their unique structures influence their death and clearance from the body. Insights gained could lead to improved therapies for conditions where cell death and clearance are disrupted.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancers or autoimmune diseases where cell death and clearance processes are implicated.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to cell death mechanisms or those not affected by cancer or autoimmune diseases may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing cancer therapies and treating autoimmune diseases by improving our understanding of cell death mechanisms.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding cell death mechanisms, but this specific approach using C. elegans for compartmentalized cell elimination is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Arlington, 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.
Conditions anti-cancer therapyAutoimmune Diseasesautoimmune disorderautoimmunity disease
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.