Understanding how cells maintain healthy epithelial layers during stress

Complex Cell Behaviors During Epithelial Homeostasis and Stress

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-11078728

This study looks at how cells in the gut help keep our tissues healthy by getting rid of damaged cells, which could help us learn more about diseases like cancer and lead to better treatments for everyone.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078728 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the behaviors of cells in maintaining the structure and function of epithelial tissues, which are crucial for overall health. By using the Drosophila intestinal system as a model, the study focuses on a process called 'cell extrusion' that removes defective or harmful cells without compromising the epithelial barrier. The research aims to uncover new insights into how these cells interact and respond to stress, which could lead to better understanding of diseases like cancer. Patients may benefit from the findings as they could inform new therapeutic strategies for maintaining epithelial health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with conditions related to epithelial dysfunction or those at risk for epithelial-related diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to epithelial health or those who do not have epithelial tissue involvement may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help maintain healthy epithelial tissues, potentially reducing the risk of diseases such as cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using model organisms like Drosophila to study cell behaviors, indicating that this approach has potential for yielding valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.