Support cells and the muscle scaffold that cause muscle scarring
Interdependency of fibroadipogenic progenitors and extracellular matrix that drive skeletal muscle fibrosis
Looks at how certain support cells and the tissue around muscles cause scarring in conditions like Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11325416 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project examines how fibro-adipogenic progenitors (support cells) and the surrounding extracellular matrix interact to create stiff, scarred muscle. Researchers will use lab-grown tissues, animal models, and muscle samples to see how the mechanical environment changes cell behavior and interferes with muscle stem cells. The team will also study whether scarring blocks the delivery or effect of gene therapies used for muscular dystrophy. The goal is to find points to block scarring and help damaged muscle heal and respond better to future treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with muscle diseases that cause fibrosis—such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy—or those willing to provide muscle biopsy samples or join related clinical efforts are the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People without muscle scarring or with unrelated health conditions are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this research, and it is not a treatment you would expect immediate help from.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new ways to reduce muscle scarring, improve strength and flexibility, and make gene therapies more effective for people with muscle diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Some lab and animal studies have shown that targeting these support cells or the matrix can reduce fibrosis, but translating those findings to effective human treatments is still unproven.
Where this research is happening
Davis, United States
- University of California at Davis — Davis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Lucas R — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Smith, Lucas R
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 below.