Understanding the different types of collagen in basement membranes
Official title: Investigating the Mobile Fraction of Basement Membranes
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-11123496 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in the basement membranes of our tissues work together to keep them strong and healthy, using fruit flies to help us understand their role in important functions like filtering blood and fighting tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 21, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $202,943 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AR084181-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11123496 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who may be affected by conditions related to basement membrane integrity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to basement membrane function or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the structure and function of basement membranes, which are essential components of various tissues in the human body. By using a model organism, Drosophila, the study aims to explore two types of collagen IV found in these membranes: a stable core fraction and a more dynamic mobile fraction. The research will examine how these fractions contribute to the mechanical strength and functionality of basement membranes, which play critical roles in health, including blood filtration and tumor resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of conditions related to basement membrane dysfunction, such as cancer metastasis and kidney disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the roles of extracellular matrix components, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Page-Mccaw, Andrea — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Page-Mccaw, Andrea
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.