3D cell and gene map of the developing bladder and lower urinary tract
The single and same cell 3D atlas of epigenome and transcriptome of the lower urinary tract
['FUNDING_U01'] · CEDARS-SINAI MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11140357
This project makes a detailed three-dimensional map of every cell type and their gene activity in the developing bladder and lower urinary tract to help people affected by urinary birth defects.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_U01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CEDARS-SINAI MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11140357 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses cutting-edge single-cell multi-omics and high-resolution spatial transcriptomics in mouse tissue to record which genes and regulatory features are active in every cell of the lower urinary tract. The team will combine those data into ultrahigh-density, near-single-cell spatial maps and place the results onto a 3D digital atlas of the developing bladder and urethra. The atlas is intended to identify new cell types, anatomical domains, and gene-gene or gene-cell relationships that underlie normal development and congenital defects. The resulting digital libraries will be shared to support future research, diagnosis, and potential therapies for urinary tract birth defects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People born with bladder or lower urinary tract malformations, or families affected by these congenital conditions, are most likely to follow this work or participate in future related sample-donation opportunities.
Not a fit: Patients with unrelated adult-onset urinary problems such as routine urinary infections or kidney stones are unlikely to receive direct benefits from this developmental atlas.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this atlas could clarify causes of congenital bladder and lower urinary tract defects and accelerate development of better diagnostics, prevention strategies, and treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Single-cell and spatial mapping have revealed new cell types in other organs, but a near-single-cell 3D epigenomic and transcriptomic atlas of the developing lower urinary tract is a newer and more comprehensive effort.
Where this research is happening
LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES
- CEDARS-SINAI MEDICAL CENTER — LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LI, XUE SEAN — CEDARS-SINAI MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: LI, XUE SEAN
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.