Understanding how certain cells help muscles grow and heal
Official title: Novel role of Hox-expressing interstitial cells in myogenesis during muscle growth, homeostasis and regeneration
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11026862 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special cells that help muscles grow and heal, and it aims to learn how these cells work with muscle stem cells to improve our understanding of muscle health, which could lead to better treatments for muscle problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | March 14, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $557,357 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AR085065-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11026862 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include adults experiencing muscle degeneration or injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-muscle related conditions or those who are not adults may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific interstitial cells in muscle development, growth, and regeneration. It focuses on how these cells, which are found outside muscle fibers, contribute to the activation and function of muscle stem cells (MuSCs). By examining the genetic factors involved, particularly the Hox11 genes, the research aims to uncover new insights into muscle biology that could enhance our understanding of muscle repair and growth. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to improved treatments for muscle-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for muscle injuries and degenerative muscle diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding muscle regeneration, but this specific approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wellik, Deneen M — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Wellik, Deneen M
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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.