Biophysical model of stellate mesenchyme and its role in shaping tissues
Official title: Biophysical model of stellate mesenchyme: molecular mechanisms to morphogenesis
Funded at Syracuse University · NIH-11427043 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Aiming to build a first-of-its-kind model to understand how stellate mesenchyme shapes tissue growth and how defects can lead to Caudal Regression Syndrome and related cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Syracuse University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,196,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R01GM165934-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11427043 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are patients affected by caudal regression syndrome or related mesenchymal disorders, whose condition could be linked to tissue morphogenesis mechanisms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without mesenchymal morphogenesis disorders may not directly benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This project will develop a biophysical model of stellate mesenchyme to explain how tissue fluidity, stiffness, and swelling arise from cell and molecule interactions. It focuses on how gaps between cells filled with soft ECM, and regulators like hyaluronic acid and FGF, influence tissue morphogenesis and disease progression. Researchers will test the model against observations from chick presomitic mesoderm and related congenital conditions, with an emphasis on translating basic findings to human biology. The work combines theory, simulations, and experimental data to connect molecular-scale changes to large-scale tissue behaviors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the model could improve understanding of congenital defects like Caudal Regression Syndrome and inform strategies to prevent or treat related cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary data suggest that altering ECM synthesis and cell adhesion can change tissue behavior, supporting potential gains from this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Syracuse University
Syracuse, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Manning, Mary Elizabeth Lisa — Syracuse University
- Study coordinator: Manning, Mary Elizabeth Lisa
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.