Understanding how intestinal cells move together to heal
Official title: Investigating a role for Wnt-associated planar polarity in collective migration of human intestinal epithelium
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11087490 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how our intestinal cells work together to heal after injury, focusing on a specific pathway and protein that help them move in sync, which could lead to better treatments for people with intestinal damage.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $40,982 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DK136305-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11087490 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that affect the intestinal epithelium, particularly those experiencing intestinal injuries or diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-injured intestinal conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the collective migration of human intestinal epithelial cells, which are crucial for repairing the intestinal lining after injury. By focusing on the WNT-associated Planar Cell Polarity pathway and the role of the VANGL2 protein, the study aims to uncover how these cells coordinate their movement to restore the intestinal barrier. The research employs advanced biological models to simulate and analyze these processes, providing insights that could lead to improved treatments for intestinal damage. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how their intestinal cells function and heal.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance the healing of intestinal injuries and improve overall gut health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell migration in other contexts, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Breau, Keith — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Breau, Keith
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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.