Understanding how cortactin helps stabilize actin networks in cells
Official title: The role of cortactin-mediated actin branch stabilization in force-producing actin networks
Funded at University of Oregon · NIH-10998944 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called cortactin to see how it helps keep important structures in our cells stable, which is especially important for how cells move and take in materials, and it’s designed for anyone interested in understanding how our cells work better as they age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $73,828 |
| NIH project number | 1F32GM156029-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10998944 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with conditions affecting cellular movement or actin-related disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to actin dynamics or cellular movement may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cortactin, a protein that stabilizes branched actin filaments, which are crucial for various cellular processes like cell movement and endocytosis. By using specialized assays, the study aims to isolate cortactin's function in maintaining these actin branches and how it affects the forces generated by actin networks. The research will explore whether cortactin protects these branches from being dismantled by other proteins, particularly focusing on the age of the actin branches and their importance in cellular functions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of cellular movement and potentially inform treatments for conditions related to cell migration and function.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of cortactin in actin stabilization is being explored, similar research has shown promise in understanding actin dynamics and its implications in various cellular processes.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oregon
Eugene, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bills, Broderick — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: Bills, Broderick
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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.