# The BCL-2 family controls stem cell identity by regulating mitochondrial dynamics and priming

> **NIH NIH R35** · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY · 2020 · $391,816

## Abstract

Summary
Research in the stem cell field has traditionally focused on understanding key transcriptional factors that
provide pluripotent cell identity. However, much less is known about other critical non-transcriptional
signaling networks that govern stem cell identity and lineage commitment. Our preliminary studies suggest
an emerging landscape in which the BCL-2 family of proteins has an active role in maintaining cell identity
independently of its role in mitochondrial outer permeabilization. We will employ a multidisciplinary approach
combining molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, and cell biology to address fundamental questions
such as: What are the signaling events involved in the role of BCL-2 family maintaining a fragmented
mitochondrial network in stem cells independently of its role in apoptosis? Are mitochondrial dynamics
mediated through the BCL-2 family a requirement for cellular reprogramming? What are the signaling
mechanisms involved in translating the information from the mitochondria into the nucleus to ultimately
modulate cell fate? We plan to combine our expertise in mitochondrial and stem cell biology with state-of-
the-art approaches to seek answers to these questions and reveal novel functions of the BCL-2 family in
stem cell identity and commitment.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9983113
- **Project number:** 5R35GM128915-03
- **Recipient organization:** VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Vivian Gama
- **Activity code:** R35 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $391,816
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2018-08-01 → 2023-07-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9983113

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9983113, The BCL-2 family controls stem cell identity by regulating mitochondrial dynamics and priming (5R35GM128915-03). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-22 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9983113. Licensed CC0.

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