Understanding how FGF proteins influence cell movement
Official title: Investigating FGF Signaling Dynamics in migrating cells
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11030216 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a special protein called FGF helps cells move around in a tiny worm, which can teach us more about how cells behave during development and could help us understand issues like cancer spread.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $38,427 |
| NIH project number | 5F31HD112152-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030216 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to abnormal cell migration, such as certain cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cell migration or those not affected by FGF signaling may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the dynamics of Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) signaling in migrating cells, specifically using a model organism, C. elegans. By visualizing key signaling proteins and manipulating their activity, the study aims to uncover how FGF influences cell migration during development. The research employs advanced imaging techniques to observe the behavior of muscle progenitor cells as they migrate, providing insights into the mechanisms of cell movement and signaling. This could enhance our understanding of processes relevant to cancer metastasis and other conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for controlling cell migration, which is crucial in cancer treatment and tissue regeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding cell signaling dynamics, but this specific approach using FGF in C. elegans is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gibney, Theresa — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Gibney, Theresa
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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.