Understanding How Cells Interact in Body Tissues
Unveiling Functional Roles of Apical Surface Interactions Between Opposing Cell Layers
This research explores how the outer surfaces of cells in our body's tissues, like those in blood vessels, communicate with each other.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11140369 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies are made of complex tissues, including vessels and tubes, where cells are arranged in three dimensions and interact in ways we don't fully understand. This project aims to uncover the purpose and mechanisms of these 'apical surface interactions' between opposing cell layers. Researchers are developing a new tool called Bilayer Intermolecular Force Microscopy (BIFM) to precisely measure the forces between these cell layers. They believe these interactions are controlled by either electrical charges or tiny hair-like structures called primary cilia on the cell surface. This foundational work will help us better understand how tissues are built and how they respond to various signals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients, but future studies building on this knowledge could benefit individuals with conditions related to tissue structure and cell communication.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical participation would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding these fundamental cell interactions could eventually lead to new insights into how tissues form and function, potentially informing future treatments for conditions affecting organs and vessels.
How similar studies have performed: This project introduces a novel method, Bilayer Intermolecular Force Microscopy (BIFM), to measure forces between cell layers, suggesting a new approach to an under-explored area.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fu, Hongxia — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Fu, Hongxia
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.