How certain genes affect body size and regeneration in flatworms
Official title: Hox gene regulation of body size and asexual reproduction underlie regenerative abilities
Funded at West Virginia University · NIH-11137062 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain genes in flatworms help them grow and heal, which could teach us more about how to improve treatments for injuries and diseases in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | West Virginia University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Morgantown, United States) |
| Project start | July 11, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $380,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM154889-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11137062 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals interested in regenerative medicine or those affected by conditions that impair healing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to regenerative processes or those not interested in the scientific aspects of regeneration may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Hox genes in regulating body size and asexual reproduction in flatworms, which are known for their remarkable regenerative abilities. By studying these genes, the research aims to uncover how they influence the capacity for regeneration and the evolutionary aspects of body complexity. The approach involves examining the genetic mechanisms that allow flatworms to regenerate their entire bodies, providing insights that could be applicable to regenerative medicine. Patients may benefit from understanding these processes as they could lead to advancements in treatments for injuries or degenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in regenerative medicine, potentially improving healing and recovery for patients with injuries or degenerative conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding gene regulation in regenerative species, but this specific focus on Hox genes in flatworms is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
West Virginia University
Morgantown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Arnold, Christopher Paul — West Virginia University
- Study coordinator: Arnold, Christopher Paul
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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.