Investigating how Hedgehog signaling affects muscle repair and fat formation

Ciliary Hedgehog signaling during adult tissue repair and disease

NIH-funded research University of Florida · NIH-11053639

This study is looking at how fat builds up in muscles and affects muscle health, especially for people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy or those experiencing muscle loss as they age, to find new ways to help muscles heal better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Gainesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11053639 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how intramuscular fat forms and its impact on muscle health, particularly in conditions like Duchenne muscular dystrophy and age-related muscle loss. The study will explore the role of ciliary Hedgehog signaling in muscle regeneration, using advanced mouse models to identify key signaling pathways and cell types involved. By examining how Hedgehog signaling can balance fat formation and muscle repair, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies for diseases characterized by fatty fibrosis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults suffering from chronic muscle diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy, sarcopenia, obesity, or diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients with acute muscle injuries or those without chronic muscle conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve muscle health and function in patients with chronic muscle diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of Hedgehog signaling in muscle regeneration, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Gainesville, 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.