How mechanical signals affect immune cell behavior in fibrotic tissues
Official title: Immuno-mechanical regulation of monocytes in fibrotic niches
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11018031 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the stiffness and stretchiness of body tissues can change how immune cells called monocytes behave, which could help us find better ways to manage inflammation and healing in different health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $406,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM157079-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11018031 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions characterized by chronic inflammation or fibrosis, such as certain cancers or autoimmune diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute infections or those not experiencing any inflammatory conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the physical properties of tissues influence the behavior of immune cells called monocytes. By creating specialized biomaterials that mimic the stiffness and elasticity of human tissues, researchers aim to understand how these mechanical cues affect monocyte inflammation and their role in tissue repair and cancer. The study uses advanced hydrogel systems to explore how different mechanical environments can either promote or suppress inflammatory responses in monocytes. This could lead to new insights into how to better manage inflammation and tissue healing in various medical conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for conditions involving inflammation and tissue repair, such as cancer and chronic injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the mechanical properties of tissues can significantly influence immune cell behavior, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vining, Kyle Holmberg — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Vining, Kyle Holmberg
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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.