Exploring how 3D surface designs affect cell behavior
Official title: Understanding Impact of Controlled 3D Topographical Design on Biological Interactions
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11018776 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cells move and communicate when they are placed on special 3D surfaces that mimic their natural surroundings, which could help us learn more about how cells behave in real life and improve future medical research.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $374,595 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM157070-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11018776 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve cell migration and communication, such as cancer or tissue regeneration issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cell behavior or those who are not undergoing treatments that involve cellular interactions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how cells interact with specially designed 3D surfaces that mimic natural environments. By creating synthetic nanoscale systems, the study aims to understand how these topographical cues influence cell migration and communication. The approach focuses on the dynamic interactions between multiple cell types in a 3D space, which is more representative of real biological conditions than traditional 2D studies. This could lead to advancements in biological research and applications by improving our understanding of cell behavior.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the development of therapies and technologies that better mimic natural biological processes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using 3D topographical designs to influence cell behavior, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Min, Jouha — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Min, Jouha
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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.