A new method to isolate individual cells from 3D tissue samples

A versatile platform to isolate cells from three-dimensional samples after spatial and temporal profiling

NIH-funded research Imagen Bioworks INC. · NIH-10931998

This study is testing a new way to look at individual cells in tissues using special imaging technology, which could help scientists learn more about how cells behave in real-life situations, ultimately leading to better treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionImagen Bioworks INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10931998 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel technique called 2P-SPOTlight, which uses advanced 2-photon microscopy to isolate single cells from complex three-dimensional tissue samples. By tagging specific cells with fluorescent markers, researchers can identify and separate these cells for further study. This method aims to improve our understanding of cellular behaviors and functions in a more realistic environment, which is crucial for disease research and drug development. Patients may benefit from the insights gained through this research, as it could lead to new therapeutic targets and treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve complex cellular interactions, such as cancer or tissue regeneration disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve cellular isolation or 3D tissue interactions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding diseases and developing targeted therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in single-cell isolation techniques, but this specific approach using 2-photon microscopy is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Houston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.