How epithelial cells change shape during development
Official title: Developmental regulation of epithelial cell
Funded at Kennesaw State University · NIH-10938764 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain genes and signals help skin-like cells in our organs change shape, which is important for keeping us healthy, and it hopes to find answers that could help people with conditions like carotid artery disease and tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kennesaw State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kennesaw, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $447,601 |
| NIH project number | 7R15GM148962-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10938764 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with conditions related to epithelial tissue abnormalities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to epithelial cell function may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that control the shape changes of epithelial cells, which are crucial for the proper functioning of various organs. Using the Drosophila follicular epithelium as a model, the study focuses on how specific genetic factors and signaling pathways influence the transition of these cells from cuboidal to squamous forms. By understanding these processes, the research aims to uncover the underlying causes of diseases linked to epithelial dysfunction. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how these cellular changes contribute to conditions like carotid artery disease and tumor malignancy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating diseases associated with epithelial cell dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar studies have shown success in understanding cellular transitions in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jia, Dongyu — Kennesaw State University
- Study coordinator: Jia, Dongyu
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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.