How immune cells (macrophages) shape prostate growth
Regulation of prostate organogenesis by tissue-resident macrophages
['FUNDING_R01'] · GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11238061
Researchers are looking at how immune cells called macrophages shape prostate growth and whether changes in those cells lead to benign prostate enlargement in adult men.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11238061 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient perspective, the team compares mouse and human prostate tissue to identify different kinds of macrophages using single-cell RNA sequencing. They use detailed 3-D imaging and experimental models to see how those macrophages help the prostate grow during puberty and in adult life. The researchers study where these macrophages come from, how male hormones (androgens) change their behavior, and sometimes move immune cells between animals to test their effects. Altogether, the work aims to link macrophage behavior to benign prostate enlargement (BPH).
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adult men who can donate prostate tissue—for example during biopsy or prostate surgery—or men with BPH would be most relevant to this research.
Not a fit: Men with prostate cancer are less likely to benefit directly because the project focuses on normal prostate development and benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to prevent or treat benign prostate enlargement by targeting specific immune cells.
How similar studies have performed: Single-cell studies have previously mapped prostate cell types, but directly linking tissue-resident macrophages to prostate growth and BPH is a newer direction with limited prior clinical translation.
Where this research is happening
WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES
- GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHIBATA, MAHO — GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SHIBATA, MAHO
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.