Developing new technologies to control how cells form tissues in organs
A developmental engineering toolbox for controlled epithelial morphogenesis
This study is exploring new ways to create artificial tissues that mimic how our organs, like the lungs and kidneys, naturally develop, which could help improve treatments for diseases and conditions like cancer and birth defects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10842510 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating innovative engineering technologies to better understand and control how cells work together to form epithelial tissues, which are essential for the proper function of organs like the lungs and kidneys. By studying the natural processes of organ development, the researchers aim to improve tissue engineering methods that currently fall short in replicating these complex structures. The project seeks to develop artificial tissues that can be used for disease modeling and therapy testing, potentially leading to better treatments for conditions such as congenital defects and cancer. Patients may benefit from advancements in organ repair and regeneration as a result of this work.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital defects or diseases affecting epithelial organs, such as the lungs, kidneys, or prostate.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to epithelial organ function or those over 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for organ-related diseases and congenital defects by enhancing tissue engineering techniques.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research in tissue engineering has shown promise in developing artificial tissues, but this approach aims to fill significant gaps in current methodologies, making it a novel endeavor.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hughes, Alex — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Hughes, Alex
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.