Understanding how epithelial cells behave and establish their structure
Official title: Mechanisms of Epithelial Cell Behavior and Polarity Establishment
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-11090671 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the arrangement of important cells in our organs can go wrong and lead to diseases like cancer, using special imaging tools and experiments to understand how these cells behave and develop.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $435,875 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM158230-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11090671 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to epithelial cell dysfunction, such as certain types of cancer or diseases affecting the kidney, liver, skin, or intestine.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to epithelial cell behavior or those who do not have epithelial tissue involvement may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the behavior and organization of epithelial cells, which are essential for the function of many organs. It focuses on how disruptions in cell polarity can lead to diseases, including various cancers. By using advanced imaging techniques and computational modeling, the researchers aim to uncover the molecular mechanisms that govern cell behavior during tissue development and differentiation. The study will involve both in vitro experiments with mammary epithelial cells and in vivo validation through genetic manipulation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the prevention and treatment of diseases related to epithelial cell dysfunction, including certain cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding epithelial cell behavior and its implications for diseases, making this approach both relevant and promising.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Macara, Ian G — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Macara, Ian G
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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.