Fibroblasts influence prostate growth and development
Official title: Interstitial fibroblasts drive prostate branching morphogenesis
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11044181 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells around the prostate help it grow and change, especially in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), to find out more about what causes prostate issues and how they might develop.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $355,613 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135535-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11044181 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adult males experiencing symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia or those interested in prostate health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with prostate cancer or other severe prostate conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how interstitial fibroblasts, a type of cell surrounding the prostate, contribute to the growth and branching of prostate tissue. By analyzing these cells in both normal and diseased states, particularly benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), the researchers aim to uncover the signaling mechanisms that drive prostate development. The study employs advanced techniques like spatial transcriptomics to understand the interactions between these fibroblasts and prostate epithelial cells. This could lead to new insights into how prostate conditions develop and progress.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia and improve understanding of prostate health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of fibroblasts in other tissues, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Strand, Douglas William — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Strand, Douglas William
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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.