# Mechanism of Csk signaling in lacrimal gland morphogenesis

> **NIH NIH R01** · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · 2020 · $405,000

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY
The tubulo-acinar network is the defining feature of the lacrimal gland structure, which is critical for its tear
producing function. However, little is known on how this architecture is constructed at the molecular level. The
project will investigate the novel role of non-receptor tyrosine kinase Csk in lacrimal gland lumen formation and
cell differentiation. By generating inducible mouse mutants, we will define the timing and lineage specific
function of Csk in acinar and ductal cells. Using both gain- and loss-of-function approaches, we seek to
demonstrate that Src family kinases mediate Csk signaling in the lacrimal gland. We will also establish a
chemical genetic system to examine the focal adhesion complex after acute inactivation of Csk and establish
the role of cytoskeletal signaling in mediating Csk function in lacrimal gland development. Finally, we will
elucidate the mechanism by which Csk signaling regulates the cellular transcriptome. Lacrimal gland
dysfunction is the underlying cause of aqueous deficient dry eye diseases, which afflict millions of people. By
elucidating the mechanism of Csk in generating the lacrimal gland, it will inform the development of cell based
therapy for dry eye diseases.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9913637
- **Project number:** 1R01EY031210-01
- **Recipient organization:** COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- **Principal Investigator:** Xin Zhang
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $405,000
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2020-02-01 → 2023-12-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9913637

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9913637, Mechanism of Csk signaling in lacrimal gland morphogenesis (1R01EY031210-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-22 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9913637. Licensed CC0.

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