Understanding how tiny vesicles are formed and sorted in a model organism.

Elucidating biogenesis and cargo sorting mechanisms for discrete extracellular vesicle subpopulations in C. elegans

NIH-funded research University of Delaware · NIH-10888218

This study is looking at tiny bubbles called extracellular vesicles that help cells talk to each other in the tiny worm C. elegans, which could help us understand diseases like cancer and brain disorders, and might lead to new ways to spot and treat these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Delaware NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10888218 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind the formation and sorting of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the model organism C. elegans. These vesicles play a crucial role in cell communication and can be involved in various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. By using fluorescent markers, the study aims to identify how different types of EVs are produced and their specific functions in the body. This could lead to advancements in using EVs as biomarkers for disease detection and potential therapeutic applications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals affected by neurodegenerative diseases or cancers, as the findings may lead to new diagnostic and treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to the mechanisms of extracellular vesicles or those not involving cell communication may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of disease mechanisms and improve the development of diagnostic tools and therapies based on extracellular vesicles.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding extracellular vesicles, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements in the field.

Where this research is happening

Newark, 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.