Understanding how growth pathways control cell growth and development

Control of cell proliferation and differentiation by growth pathways

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11064815

This study looks at how certain proteins help control cell growth and development, especially in muscles, to understand why problems in these processes can lead to diseases like cancer, using fruit flies as a model to make the findings easier to apply to humans.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11064815 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that regulate how cells grow and differentiate during animal development. By focusing on the Retinoblastoma (RB) pathway, which is crucial for cell cycle control, the research aims to uncover why disruptions in these processes can lead to diseases like cancer. Using the simpler Drosophila model, the study explores the essential functions of specific proteins involved in these pathways, particularly in adult skeletal muscle. The findings could provide insights into normal biological processes and potential strategies for addressing related health issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to cell proliferation and differentiation, particularly those affected by cancers.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions unrelated to cell growth or differentiation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating diseases associated with cell growth and differentiation, such as cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding similar pathways in model organisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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 Cancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.