Controlling how groups of cells behave together

Understanding and controlling collective cell behaviors

NIH-funded research Princeton University · NIH-11144996

This study is looking at how groups of cells work together to heal and form organs, and it’s testing new ways to use electrical signals to help guide these cell activities, which could lead to better healing methods for everyone.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPrinceton University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11144996 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to understand and manipulate the collective behaviors of cells, which are crucial for healing, organ formation, and disease spread. The project involves two main approaches: first, studying how large groups of cells coordinate their movements and functions, and second, developing bioelectric tools to influence these behaviors using electrical signals. By exploring these dynamics, the research seeks to create new methods to guide cell activities in engineered tissues, potentially improving healing processes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that impair healing or require tissue regeneration.

Not a fit: Patients with stable, non-progressive conditions that do not involve tissue damage or regeneration may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to enhanced healing and regeneration of tissues, benefiting patients with injuries or diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using bioelectric cues to influence cell behavior, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Princeton, 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 2026-06-13 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.