How the stiffness of materials affects cell growth in 3D environments

Regulation of Adherent Cell Proliferation by Matrix Viscoelasticity

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10918234

This study looks at how the firmness and flexibility of materials can affect how cells grow and behave in 3D spaces, helping us understand how changes in their environment might influence important processes like cell growth and movement, which could be really helpful for improving treatments in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10918234 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the stiffness and viscoelastic properties of materials influence the growth and behavior of cells in three-dimensional environments. By examining the mechanisms through which cells sense these material properties, the study aims to uncover how changes in their surroundings can affect cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. The research employs advanced techniques such as ATAC sequencing to analyze gene expression changes in response to varying matrix conditions, providing insights into cellular responses that could enhance tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that could benefit from advanced tissue engineering techniques, such as those requiring regenerative therapies for injuries or degenerative diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to tissue engineering or those not requiring cell-based therapies may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for tissue engineering and regenerative therapies by optimizing the conditions for cell growth.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell behavior in response to material stiffness, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.