How physical properties of tissues affect immune cell behavior
Biophysical regulation of macrophage function
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-10894843
This study is looking at how the stiffness of tissues affects immune cells called macrophages, which play an important role in inflammation and healing, to help us understand how these cells work in diseases like cancer and fibrosis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10894843 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the physical characteristics of tissues, such as stiffness, influence the behavior of macrophages, which are key immune cells involved in inflammation and healing. The study aims to understand the molecular mechanisms that regulate macrophage activation in response to different tissue environments, particularly focusing on a protein called YAP and an ion channel known as Piezo1. By examining how these factors interact with the mechanical properties of tissues, the research seeks to uncover new insights into macrophage function in diseases like cancer and fibrosis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions involving inflammation or tissue healing, such as cancer or fibrosis.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to macrophage function or those not experiencing inflammation or tissue healing may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance tissue healing and improve immune responses in various diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding how physical cues affect immune cell behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
IRVINE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE — IRVINE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LIU, WENDY — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE
- Study coordinator: LIU, WENDY
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.
Conditions: Cancers, Cardiovascular Diseases