Microenvironmental Rescue of Age-Related Cellular Dysfunction in a 3D Bioprinted Mammary Model System
Funded at Old Dominion University · NIH-11424492 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A research project aims to test new ways to restore aging mammary tissue function using a 3D bioprinted model and cell interactions that may reduce disease-related decline.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Old Dominion University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Norfolk, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $160,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R16AG104203-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11424492 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates would be individuals interested in aging-related tissue health and future trials stemming from regenerative approaches in breast or mammary biology.
✕Less likely to help
People without an interest in aging biology or regenerative approaches in mammary tissue may see no direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project uses aging-related changes in tissue to study how mammary gland cells and their environment influence aging and disease. It employs 3D bioprinted mammary models and cultured cells to explore how regenerative environments can redirect dysfunctional cells toward normal function. Researchers look at interactions with stem cells and cancer cells to see if youthful signals can reduce harmful outcomes like tumor growth or tissue degeneration. The work focuses on translating lab findings in a mouse model system toward strategies that preserve tissue health as people age.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to therapies that help maintain healthy tissue function during aging and reduce the risk of age-related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary data in mouse models show regenerative environments can redirect problematic cells toward normal function, suggesting potential for translation.
Where this research is happening
-
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sachs, Patrick Christian — Old Dominion University
- Study coordinator: Sachs, Patrick Christian
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.