Understanding how muscle precursor cells move and find their way in the body

Motility and Guidance Signals Control Migration of Muscle Precursors

NIH-funded research University of Maine Orono · NIH-11080322

This study is looking at how certain signals help muscle cells move and grow in the body, using zebrafish embryos to learn more about how muscles form, which could help us understand muscle-related conditions better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Maine Orono NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Orono, United States)
Project IDNIH-11080322 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the signals that control the movement of muscle precursor cells, which are essential for forming muscles in the body. Using zebrafish embryos as a model, the study aims to identify the cues that activate these cells' motility and guide them to their destinations. The researchers will utilize advanced genetic tools to observe and manipulate these processes, providing insights into how muscle patterns are established during development. This work could enhance our understanding of muscle formation and related disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions affecting muscle development or regeneration, particularly those under 21 years old.

Not a fit: Patients with fully developed musculature or those not experiencing muscle-related issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating muscle-related diseases and injuries by improving our understanding of muscle development.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using zebrafish as a model for studying muscle development has shown promising results, indicating that this approach is both valid and valuable.

Where this research is happening

Orono, 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 2026-06-13 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.