How finger and toe tips regrow
Cellular plasticity and lineage in mammalian digit tip regeneration
['FUNDING_R01'] · BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11129705
This research explores how certain cells in finger and toe tips allow them to regrow after an injury, hoping to learn how to help other body parts heal.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11129705 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Mice, monkeys, and humans have a natural ability to regrow their finger and toe tips after an injury. This project aims to understand the specific cells and signals that make this natural healing process possible. Researchers are closely examining different types of cells, called fibroblasts, in both mouse and human digit tips to discover their unique roles. By understanding where these cells come from and what they do, we hope to uncover the secrets of how complex tissues can regenerate. This knowledge could eventually help us find ways to encourage healing in other parts of the body that don't naturally regrow.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but future studies stemming from this work might seek individuals with digit tip injuries or those interested in regenerative medicine.
Not a fit: Patients not interested in the basic science of regeneration or those seeking immediate clinical treatments would not directly benefit from this particular grant.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide fundamental insights into regeneration, potentially leading to new strategies for healing and regrowing lost tissues in humans.
How similar studies have performed: The ability of digit tips to regenerate in mammals is a known biological phenomenon, and previous cellular characterization in mice has provided a foundation for this deeper investigation.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LEHOCZKY, JESSICA A — BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: LEHOCZKY, JESSICA 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.