How epithelial cells move and form structures in the body
Official title: Mechanisms of epithelial migration and basement membrane assembly
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11009558 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how groups of skin cells move together, especially in tight spaces, to help with healing and organ growth, and it aims to understand how this movement works, which could help us learn more about health issues like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $534,385 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM148285-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009558 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to epithelial cell migration, such as those recovering from wounds or affected by certain cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to epithelial cell behavior or those not requiring tissue repair may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the collective migration of epithelial cells, which is crucial for processes like wound healing and organ development. It focuses on understanding how these cells align and move together, particularly in confined spaces where traditional guiding cues are absent. By studying a unique form of migration that occurs in circular or spherical shapes, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind the assembly of the basement membrane, an essential component for tissue structure and function. This work could provide insights into how these processes affect health and disease, including cancer metastasis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for tissue repair and cancer treatment by enhancing our understanding of cell movement and organization.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell migration and its implications for tissue development, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Horne-Badovinac, Sally — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Horne-Badovinac, Sally
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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.