Understanding how fibroblasts affect bladder function
Official title: Role of fibroblasts in bladder mucosal function
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11044517 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special cells in the bladder that help keep it flexible and working properly, which could lead to new ways to help people with bladder problems feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | January 10, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $690,451 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK138907-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11044517 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients suffering from bladder dysfunctions such as neurogenic bladder, outlet obstruction, or radiation cystitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with normal bladder function or those not experiencing any bladder-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of fibroblasts in the bladder's connective tissue and how they contribute to bladder function. It focuses on a specific type of fibroblast known as suburothelial fibroblasts, which are believed to help maintain the bladder's elasticity and contractility. By using advanced imaging techniques and genetic analysis, the research aims to uncover how these cells interact with the bladder's structure and nerve signaling. The findings could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients with bladder dysfunction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for bladder conditions that result from stiff or fibrotic bladders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of fibroblasts in various tissues, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carattino, Marcelo Daniel — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Carattino, Marcelo Daniel
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Elastomeric membranes for safer pelvic organ prolapse repair
A new 3D-printed elastomeric membrane made from polycarbonate urethane is being tested to replace stiff polypropylene meshes for pelvic organ prolapse in women, aiming to reduce complications.
-
Role of hyaluronan in egg development and ovarian reserve
This grant studies how the hyaluronan matrix in the ovary affects the aging of the female reproductive system and the pool of eggs available.
-
Regulatory switches that control imprinting in early human development
This grant studies how certain genes stay “one-copy” active in early development and what goes wrong in assisted reproduction, with a focus on imprinting disorders.
-
Identifying molecular signs of imprinting errors linked to fertility treatments
This grant studies how assisted reproductive technologies may cause imprinting errors in embryos and how these errors relate to certain birth conditions, with implications for families using infertility treatments.
-
Bioadhesive vaginal film for 7-day protection against HIV, HSV, and pregnancy
A vaginal film that slowly releases antibodies to prevent HIV, HSV, and unintended pregnancy for about a week from a single use.
-
Spermatogonial stem cell transplantation and culture in patients
Researchers are testing a way to transplant or grow sperm-producing cells back in boys and men who stored tissue before cancer treatment, to help them have biological children in the future.
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.