Understanding how low oxygen and temperature affect living organisms

Genetic pathway and cellular mechanism underlying organismic responses to hypoxia and hypothermia

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11001533

This study is looking at how low oxygen and cold temperatures affect tiny worms, fish, and brain cells, to find out how some living things manage to survive these tough conditions, which could help improve treatments for strokes and heart problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11001533 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how low oxygen levels (hypoxia) and low temperatures (hypothermia) impact cellular processes and behaviors in various organisms. By studying genetically modified C. elegans and Mangrove Killifish, as well as mammalian neural stem cells, the research aims to uncover the genetic and cellular mechanisms that allow some organisms to tolerate these extreme conditions. The findings could lead to better treatments for ischemic disorders like stroke and heart attacks, particularly through the use of therapeutic hypothermia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of ischemic disorders, such as those with cardiovascular diseases or a history of stroke.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to hypoxia or hypothermia, or those not at risk for ischemic events, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for patients suffering from conditions like stroke and heart attacks by enhancing our understanding of how to protect brain and heart tissues during low oxygen and temperature events.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding hypoxia and hypothermia responses, indicating that this approach has potential for significant breakthroughs.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.