Controlling Cell Behavior in 3D Tissues with Ultrasound and Biomaterials
Genetically Manipulating Protein Expression to Probe 3D Cell Behavior using Ultrasound-Responsive Biomaterials
This work aims to develop new materials that use ultrasound to precisely control how cells behave and grow in 3D environments, helping us understand and repair tissues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11128642 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on precise control of proteins to coordinate biological processes in healthy and diseased tissues. We are creating special 3D materials, called SonoScaffolds, that can be controlled with ultrasound to deliver genetic instructions to cells. This allows us to turn genes on or off and even edit them at specific locations and times within these materials. By doing so, we hope to better understand how cells interact and behave, which is crucial for developing new ways to heal and regenerate tissues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work does not currently involve direct patient participation, but future applications could benefit patients needing tissue repair or those with diseases involving cell dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention would not benefit from this early-stage research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to new regenerative therapies and a deeper understanding of diseases by allowing precise control over cell behavior in engineered tissues.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of using biomaterials for tissue engineering is established, this specific method of ultrasound-mediated genetic manipulation within 3D scaffolds is a novel and untested approach.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ibsen, Carolyn Schutt — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Ibsen, Carolyn Schutt
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.