Understanding how epithelial cells change shape and position in 3D environments
Official title: Volumetric analysis of epithelial morphogenesis with high spatiotemporal resolution
Funded at University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) · NIH-11019838 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how layers of cells in our bodies change shape and work together in 3D, which can help us understand how tissues develop and how this might relate to certain diseases, ultimately aiming to improve treatments for patients with conditions affecting these tissues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Denver, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $265,419 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM144506-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11019838 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions affecting epithelial tissues, such as certain cancers or developmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to epithelial tissue or those who are not within the age range of 21+ years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how epithelial tissues, which are layers of cells, remodel themselves in three dimensions to form different shapes and structures. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to observe the movements and interactions of cells in a more realistic 3D context, rather than the traditional 2D approach. The focus is on understanding the dynamics of cell behavior during tissue development and how these processes may relate to various diseases. Patients may benefit from insights gained about tissue remodeling that could inform future treatments for conditions involving epithelial tissues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating diseases that involve epithelial tissue dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach to studying epithelial remodeling in 3D is innovative, similar studies in 2D have provided foundational insights, suggesting potential for success in this novel 3D analysis.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Denver (Colorado Seminary)
Denver, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Blankenship, James Todd — University of Denver (Colorado Seminary)
- Study coordinator: Blankenship, James Todd
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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.