Integrative biophysical modeling of how tissue surfaces move and jam
Official title: Integrative biophysical modeling for collective tissue mechanics
Funded at Northeastern University · NIH-11392421 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how groups of cells on organ surfaces switch from being static to moving together in curved, tube-like and other shapes to help understand tissue remodeling.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $394,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150494-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11392421 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include patients with lung or airway conditions where epithelial or endothelial remodeling plays a role, or healthy volunteers contributing data/samples for modeling.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without relevant lung or airway conditions may participate only as part of broader modeling studies and may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project uses computer models and biophysical ideas to study how epithelial and endothelial cell layers behave on curved surfaces, like airways and alveoli. It looks at how curvature and topology influence whether a cell group becomes fluid-like and migratory or remains jammed and solid-like. The work translates observations from flat 2D systems to more realistic 3D geometries found in the body, aiming to predict tissue remodeling during development, repair, and disease. The findings could inform how tissues heal after injury or how certain lung structures reorganize during respiration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Better understanding of how tissue barriers remodel could lead to new approaches for treating lung injury or developmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous 2D models show that curvature and topology affect collective cell movement, but 3D predictions are still developing.
Where this research is happening
-
Northeastern University
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bi, Dapeng — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Bi, Dapeng
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Mediators and Modulators of Executive Function Training in Older Adults
A large study to understand what parts of brain-training programs for older adults help or hinder engagement and improvements in thinking skills.
-
Ultra-low-power ML brain implants to help manage Alzheimer’s and related disorders
A project to create a tiny, energy-saving brain-monitoring device with smart software that can help detect and manage Alzheimer’s-related conditions in real time.
-
AI-powered video guidance to help blind and low-vision people do daily tasks
A hospital-style grant is funding a wearable glasses system that gives BLV individuals real-time, step-by-step video instructions to do everyday tasks.
-
Precision laser-assisted brain tumor surgery using gigahertz pulse bursts
A new brain tumor surgery method uses real-time imaging and ultra-precise laser bursts to remove cancer cells while sparing healthy brain tissue.
-
Administrative supplement to extend IGVF work on variant interpretation
A one-year extension to finish and expand resources that help scientists interpret genetic variants and predict their effects on health.
-
Combined peer support and online program to help HIV prevention for youths
A youth-focused program combines a web-based alcohol/sexual risk intervention with peer counseling and navigation to reduce HIV risk and alcohol use.
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.