NIH-funded research R15 grant

Investigating how physical and chemical signals influence stem cell development

Official title: Single-molecule approaches to study epiblast stem cell fate decision

Funded at Southern Illinois University Carbondale · NIH-10291544 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how special stem cells can be encouraged to turn into different types of body cells by using certain chemicals and physical forces, which could help improve treatments for injuries and diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSouthern Illinois University Carbondale
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Carbondale, United States)
Project startJuly 1, 2021
Project endJune 30, 2025
Funding year2021
Award (this year)$442,500
NIH project number1R15GM140448-01A1
Project IDNIH-10291544 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from conditions related to tissue and organ failure, particularly those affected by aging or injury.

Less likely to help

Patients with stable organ function and no need for regenerative therapies may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research explores how pluripotent epiblast stem cells (EpiSCs) can be guided to develop into functional body cells by examining the effects of both chemical signals and mechanical forces at the single-molecule level. By understanding how these signals interact, the study aims to improve the control over cell fate decisions, which is crucial for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques to manipulate and measure these signals, providing insights into the mechanisms that govern cell differentiation and self-renewal.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective methods for creating functional cells for tissue repair and regeneration, potentially improving outcomes for patients with organ failure.

How similar studies have gone: While the integration of mechanical and chemical signaling in stem cell research is a growing field, this specific approach focusing on single-molecule interactions is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

  • Southern Illinois University Carbondale
    Carbondale, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Chowdhury, Farhan H — Southern Illinois University Carbondale
  • Study coordinator: Chowdhury, Farhan H

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.