Creating a new model for understanding human anatomy using technology
Official title: Representing Human Anatomy for Computation and Communication: Synergistic Development of an Anatomical Ontology and Semantically-Augmented Anatomical Graphics
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-10933393 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to organize and understand human anatomy that will help both computers and people communicate better, so patients can benefit from improved medical tools and information about their bodies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | September 25, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $360,113 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM149620-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10933393 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals involved in biomedical research, medical education, or those who utilize anatomical information in clinical settings.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not engaged in biomedical research or do not require detailed anatomical information for their care may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a comprehensive ontology of human anatomy that can be utilized by both computers and people. It aims to address inconsistencies in existing anatomical models and enhance communication through standardized visual representations. By creating the Foundational Model of Human Anatomy (FMHA), the project seeks to improve medical information systems and facilitate better understanding of anatomical structures. Patients may benefit from advancements in medical software that utilize this improved anatomical knowledge.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and effective medical information systems that enhance patient care and education.
How similar studies have gone: Other research in the field of biomedical ontologies has shown success in improving knowledge representation and communication, indicating that this approach has potential.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clarkson, Melissa — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Clarkson, Melissa
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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.