Understanding how cells are cleared during tissue regeneration
Official title: Mechanisms of cell corpse clearance in tissue turnover and regeneration using planarians and zebrafish
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11129758 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our bodies clean up dead cells to keep our tissues healthy and help them heal, using tiny creatures like planarians and zebrafish, and it could lead to new ways to treat conditions like autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | July 2, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $324,420 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM155244-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11129758 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to tissue regeneration or autoimmune disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-regenerative conditions or those not affected by tissue turnover issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which dying cells are cleared from tissues, which is crucial for maintaining tissue health and regeneration. By studying planarians and zebrafish, the researchers aim to uncover how cell corpses are processed and the role they play in tissue turnover and regeneration. The study will explore whether these cells are digested on-site or removed from the tissue, and how disruptions in this process may affect inflammation and tissue repair. This research could provide insights into the cellular processes that underlie regeneration and the potential for therapeutic interventions in conditions like autoimmune diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing tissue regeneration and treating autoimmune conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell clearance mechanisms in other models, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pearson, Bret James — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Pearson, Bret James
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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.