Understanding PIEZO-related diseases using a tiny worm model
Modeling PIEZO associated diseases in Caenorhabditis elegans: from genetics to mechanism
This project explores how changes in PIEZO proteins cause diseases like arthrogryposis and blood disorders by studying them in a small worm.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11158804 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on special proteins called PIEZO channels to sense touch and stretch, but when they don't work right, they can cause serious health problems affecting the heart, brain, and connective tissues. This research uses a small worm, C. elegans, which has a similar PIEZO protein, to learn more about these diseases. By studying how the worm's PIEZO protein functions and what happens when it's faulty, we hope to uncover the basic ways these diseases develop. This work will also look for other genes that interact with PIEZO, which could point to new ways to help people with these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation, but it is relevant for individuals and families affected by PIEZO-associated conditions like distal arthrogryposis, dehydrated hereditary stomatocytosis, and Gordon Syndrome.
Not a fit: Patients without PIEZO-associated conditions would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide a deeper understanding of PIEZO-related diseases, potentially leading to new ideas for treatments or therapies in the future.
How similar studies have performed: The researcher has already made discoveries about the worm's PIEZO protein, suggesting this approach is promising for uncovering new biological insights.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bai, Xiaofei — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Bai, Xiaofei
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.