Understanding how genes control body shape and size during growth and regeneration
Official title: Systems Biology of Shape and Size Regulation
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore County · NIH-10877861 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how genes and biological processes shape the size and form of the planarian worm, which can regrow its body, to help us understand how tissue growth works, and it’s designed for anyone interested in the science of regeneration.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore County NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2020 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $381,721 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM137953-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10877861 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital abnormalities or conditions that affect tissue growth and regeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-regenerative conditions or those not affected by growth and shape regulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and molecular mechanisms that regulate body shape and size during development and regeneration, using a unique approach that combines live experiments with advanced machine learning techniques. By studying the planarian worm, known for its remarkable ability to regenerate, the research aims to uncover how various biological pathways and physical properties work together to control tissue growth. The project will utilize innovative computational methods and gene expression imaging to analyze the data collected from surgical and genetic manipulations, ultimately aiming to create a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing body morphology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in regenerative medicine and treatments for congenital abnormalities and cancers.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of integrating systems biology with regenerative studies is innovative, similar research has shown promise in understanding growth regulation in other model organisms.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore County
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lobo, Daniel — University of Maryland Baltimore County
- Study coordinator: Lobo, Daniel
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.