How cell size affects tissue organization and health
Differential Cell Size in Epithelial Packing, Homeostasis, and Disease
This study is looking at how the size of cells in the small intestine affects how well the tissue works and stays healthy, which could help us understand diseases like cancer, and it's being done using mice to learn more about how these cells fit together.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10891544 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how different sizes of cells within epithelial tissues, such as those in the small intestine, influence the overall structure and function of these tissues. By examining how cells of varying sizes pack together, the study aims to understand the role of cell size in maintaining healthy tissue and how disruptions in this packing may lead to diseases like cancer. The research employs a mouse model to explore these fundamental questions, focusing on the organization of specific cell types in the intestinal crypts. Through this approach, the study seeks to uncover new insights into tissue homeostasis and disease progression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions affecting epithelial tissues, particularly those at risk for bowel cancer or other epithelial diseases.
Not a fit: Patients with non-epithelial related conditions or those not affected by tissue packing abnormalities may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating diseases related to epithelial tissue dysfunction, including various cancers.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of cell shape in tissue organization has been studied, the specific focus on cell size as a causal factor in epithelial homeostasis is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Omaha, United States
- University of Nebraska Medical Center — Omaha, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ramanathan, Subramanian Perinkulam — University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Ramanathan, Subramanian Perinkulam
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.