Using DNA nanostructures to control how cells move
Official title: Mechanical Modulation of Cell Migrations by DNA Nanoassemblies
Funded at Kent State University · NIH-11061201 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny DNA structures can change the way cells move, which is important for many body functions, and it aims to help us understand cell behavior better, especially in relation to diseases that involve cell movement.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kent State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kent, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $305,201 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA252827-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061201 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to abnormal cell migration, such as certain autoimmune diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable conditions that do not involve cell migration issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on how mechanical properties of DNA nanostructures can influence cell migration, a crucial process for many biological functions. By creating DNA origami nanosprings, the team aims to modulate the movement of cells by affecting the clustering of integrin receptors on cell membranes. This involves measuring forces on these receptors to understand how they interact with their environment. The goal is to develop a better understanding of cell behavior, which could have implications for various diseases linked to cell migration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating diseases caused by improper cell migration.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of DNA nanostructures in this context is relatively novel, similar approaches in manipulating cell behavior have shown promise in preliminary studies.
Where this research is happening
-
Kent State University
Kent, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mao, Hanbin — Kent State University
- Study coordinator: Mao, Hanbin
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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.