Understanding how Hedgehog signaling works in cells
Official title: Mechanistic study of Hedgehog signaling in the cilium
Funded at University of California, Merced · NIH-10527729 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific signaling pathway in our cells, which is important for normal growth and can be linked to certain birth defects and cancers, works by focusing on a tiny part of the cell called the primary cilium, and it aims to find new ways to treat conditions related to this pathway.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, Merced NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Merced, United States) |
| Project start | September 22, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $384,752 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA274595-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10527729 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with congenital abnormalities or cancers associated with Hedgehog signaling defects.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to Hedgehog signaling or those not experiencing congenital abnormalities or specific cancers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway, which is crucial for normal development and is linked to various birth defects and cancers. The study focuses on the primary cilium, a small organelle that plays a key role in Hh signaling. Researchers will use advanced techniques to identify proteins that interact with Smoothened (Smo), a central component of this pathway, and explore how these interactions influence signaling and tumor development. By uncovering these mechanisms, the research aims to pave the way for targeted treatments for Hh-related disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for patients with congenital abnormalities and certain cancers linked to Hedgehog signaling.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding signaling pathways similar to Hedgehog, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, Merced
Merced, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ge, Xuecai — University of California, Merced
- Study coordinator: Ge, Xuecai
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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.