Understanding how dying cells are cleared from the body
Official title: Molecular mechanisms that regulate the degradation of dying cells
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11145003 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how our bodies clean up dying cells, which is important for keeping our tissues healthy and reducing inflammation, and by using tiny worms as a model, researchers hope to find ways to help improve this process in humans, especially for those dealing with cancer or autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $400,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM153415-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11145003 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancer or autoimmune conditions who may benefit from improved cell clearance mechanisms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cell clearance or those who are not affected by cancer or autoimmune diseases may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms involved in the clearance of dying cells, which is crucial for maintaining tissue health and preventing inflammation. By studying the process of phagocytosis in the model organism C. elegans, researchers aim to identify proteins and signaling pathways that facilitate the recognition and degradation of apoptotic cells. The findings could provide insights into how these processes are regulated in humans, particularly in relation to cancer and autoimmune diseases. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how to enhance the clearance of dying cells to improve health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance the body's ability to clear dying cells, potentially improving treatment outcomes for cancer and autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell clearance mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Zheng — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Zheng
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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.