Understanding how cells communicate and adapt during tissue development
Official title: Principles of Mechanochemical Signal Integration Underlying Developmental Robustness
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10932878 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cells in developing tissues work together and respond to their surroundings, which could help us create better artificial tissues that act more like natural ones.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 22, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $372,100 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150759-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10932878 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with congenital abnormalities or those interested in advancements in tissue engineering.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed tissues and no history of congenital defects may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the cellular mechanisms that allow embryonic tissues to develop consistently despite environmental changes. By focusing on how cells integrate both biochemical and mechanical signals, the project aims to uncover how cells can sense their surroundings and make decisions that ensure proper tissue formation. Utilizing advanced techniques such as live imaging and computational modeling, the research will explore how cells interact with each other and their environment to maintain robust tissue patterns. This could lead to improved methods for creating artificial tissues that better mimic natural development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to advancements in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, improving treatments for congenital defects and other tissue-related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding cellular communication and tissue development, but this approach of integrating mechanical and biochemical signals is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tsai, Tony Yu-Chen — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Tsai, Tony Yu-Chen
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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.