Understanding how muscle sensors respond to stretching
Official title: Molecular mediators of muscle spindle mechanosensation
Funded at San Jose State University · NIH-11057619 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help muscle sensors in our bodies detect stretching, which is important for knowing where our body is and how it moves, and it could help us understand issues with body awareness that some people face as they age or after certain treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | San Jose State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Jose, United States) |
| Project start | March 18, 2024 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $131,850 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM153600-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11057619 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals over 21 years old who experience conditions like chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy or neuromuscular diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to muscle spindle function or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that allow muscle sensors, known as muscle spindles, to detect stretching. It focuses on how certain proteins, particularly PIEZO2, affect the ability of these sensors to send signals to the brain about body position and movement. By studying mouse models with specific genetic mutations, the research aims to uncover how changes in these proteins during development impact muscle sensation and reflexes. This could lead to insights into conditions that impair proprioception, such as aging and chemotherapy-induced neuropathy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve understanding and treatment of conditions that affect muscle sensation and movement.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the role of mechanosensitive channels like PIEZO2 can lead to advancements in treating sensory dysfunctions, indicating a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
San Jose State University
San Jose, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilkinson, Katherine Anne — San Jose State University
- Study coordinator: Wilkinson, Katherine Anne
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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.