Understanding how fluid forces influence lymphatic valve formation
Official title: Role of Piezo1-controlled Prox1 Modification in Lymphatic Valve Formation
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11107218 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in your lymphatic system respond to the movement of fluid, which helps them create important structures called lymphatic valves, and it aims to find new ways to help people with lymphatic problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | May 15, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $808,121 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL179007-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11107218 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions affecting the lymphatic system or those at risk for lymphatic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-lymphatic related conditions or those without any lymphatic system involvement may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how lymphatic endothelial cells sense fluid forces and convert these signals into biological processes that lead to the formation of lymphatic valves. The focus is on Piezo1, a mechanosensitive ion channel, which detects fluid flow and activates Prox1, a key transcription factor involved in lymphatic development. By using various methods, including laboratory experiments and animal models, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind lymphatic valve formation and identify potential therapeutic targets for lymphatic disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for lymphatic-related disorders, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding mechanotransduction in other biological systems, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Choi, Dongwon — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Choi, Dongwon
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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.