Understanding how cells communicate in different tissue environments
Developing a Novel Causal Discovery Framework to Unveil Individualized Cell-Cell Communication Networks
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11043882
This study is looking at how cells talk to each other in different tissues, which could help us understand diseases like cancer and inflammation better, by using advanced computer techniques to see how changes in one cell can impact its neighbors.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11043882 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research aims to create a new computational framework that combines deep learning and causal discovery algorithms to explore how cells communicate with each other in various tissue environments. By analyzing individual tissue samples, the study will identify the unique cell-cell communication networks that exist in both healthy and diseased states. The approach involves developing a novel individualized causal Bayesian network that can model these interactions, allowing for a better understanding of how changes in one cell can affect its neighbors. This could lead to insights into the cellular dynamics in conditions like cancer or inflammation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with specific tissue samples from conditions such as cancer or lung inflammation.
Not a fit: Patients without accessible tissue samples or those with conditions not related to cell communication may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized treatment strategies by revealing how individual cells interact in various diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using computational frameworks for understanding cell interactions, but this specific approach is novel.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHEN, LUJIA — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: CHEN, LUJIA
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.