Understanding how digit tips regenerate after amputation
Cellular plasticity and lineage in mammalian digit tip regeneration
This study is looking at how the tips of fingers can grow back after being cut off, focusing on the special cells that help with healing, and it aims to find out how these cells work so we can improve healing for other body parts that don’t regenerate on their own.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10876300 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the process of digit tip regeneration in mammals, including humans, focusing on the unique cellular and molecular signals involved. By analyzing specific populations of fibroblasts, which are crucial for tissue regeneration, the study aims to uncover their roles and how they contribute to the formation of a new digit tip after amputation. The research employs advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing to characterize these cells and their functions. Insights gained could inform broader regenerative medicine applications for other tissues that do not naturally regenerate.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced digit tip amputations and are 21 years or older.
Not a fit: Patients with amputations of body parts other than digit tips may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients with amputations, enhancing their ability to regenerate lost tissue.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding tissue regeneration in other species, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights, although the specific focus on digit tips is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lehoczky, Jessica a — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Lehoczky, Jessica a
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.