Understanding how neural crest cells stop migrating and form ganglia
Molecular mechanisms driving cessation of neural crest migration and aggregation into cranial ganglia
This study looks at how certain cells in the body, important for developing the nervous system, change their behavior from moving around to grouping together, and it aims to understand the genes that control this process.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pasadena, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10843933 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that control the migration and aggregation of neural crest cells, which are crucial for developing various structures in the body, including parts of the nervous system. By examining the changes in gene expression during the transition from migration to aggregation, the study aims to uncover how these cells lose their migratory properties and form organized structures called ganglia. The approach involves advanced techniques like ATAC sequencing to analyze the accessibility of chromatin and identify key regulatory factors involved in this process.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to neural crest cell development, such as certain congenital disorders or cancers.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neural crest cell development may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into developmental disorders and cancers related to neural crest cells, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have performed: While the mechanisms of neural crest cell migration have been studied, this specific focus on the condensation process is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Pasadena, United States
- California Institute of Technology — Pasadena, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Urrutia, Hugo Alexander — California Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Urrutia, Hugo Alexander
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 below.