How bladder support cells control the lining and bladder pain
Signal integration by specialized mesenchyme in urothelial homeostasis and Interstitial Cystitis / Bladder Pain Syndrome
Researchers are exploring whether special support cells in the bladder control nerve overgrowth and damage to the bladder lining in people with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS).
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11378890 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team uses mouse models and single-cell RNA sequencing to identify a specific group of bladder mesenchyme (support) cells that help regulate both nerve supply and the protective urothelial lining. They will study the signals these cells send and how those signals affect nerve growth and the bladder barrier. The work connects these cell behaviors to features of IC/BPS such as increased sensitivity, frequent flare-ups, and the severe loss of the urothelial barrier seen in cases with Hunner’s lesions. Findings are intended to point toward ways to prevent nerve overgrowth or restore the bladder lining.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People diagnosed with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS), especially those with frequent flare-ups or Hunner’s lesions, would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People whose pelvic pain comes from non-bladder causes or who do not have IC/BPS-related urothelial or nerve changes may not benefit from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new treatments that reduce bladder pain and urgency by preventing nerve overgrowth or repairing the bladder lining.
How similar studies have performed: Single-cell and mouse studies have successfully identified key cell types and signals in other organs, but applying this cell-type and signaling approach specifically to IC/BPS is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Beachy, Philip a — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Beachy, Philip a
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.