Understanding how epithelial tissues develop and respond to injury

Epithelial biology: morphogenesis and damage signaling

NIH-funded research University of California Berkeley · NIH-11042149

This study looks at how the tiny cells that make up our organs, using fruit flies as a model, react to physical forces and injuries, helping us understand how our bodies heal and develop.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Berkeley NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Berkeley, United States)
Project IDNIH-11042149 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the fundamental biology of epithelial tissues, which are essential for organ formation and function. Using the fruit fly Drosophila as a model organism, the research explores how these tissues respond to mechanical forces and damage. By examining the interactions between cells and their surrounding extracellular matrix, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that shape organs and understand the body's response to epithelial injuries. This work combines various scientific approaches to provide insights that could be applicable across different species.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include adults with conditions related to epithelial tissue damage or developmental abnormalities.

Not a fit: Patients with non-epithelial related conditions or those under 21 years old may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for repairing damaged tissues and improving organ function in humans.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding epithelial biology and its implications for tissue engineering and repair, indicating that this approach has a solid foundation.

Where this research is happening

Berkeley, 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 2026-06-09 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.