Understanding how some animals can regenerate their body parts

Comparative systems biology defines regulatory mechanisms in whole-body regeneration

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10925280

This study is exploring how some animals, like flatworms, can regrow lost body parts, and it's looking to find out how we might use that knowledge to help people heal and repair their own tissues better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10925280 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind whole-body regeneration, focusing on how certain animals, like flatworms, can regrow lost tissues. By comparing the regenerative abilities of different species, the study aims to uncover the genetic and cellular pathways that enable regeneration. Advanced genomic tools will be used to analyze how these pathways function and how they can be manipulated to promote tissue regrowth in humans. The findings could lead to new therapies for patients needing tissue repair or regeneration.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that result in tissue loss or damage, such as severe injuries or surgical removals.

Not a fit: Patients with stable, non-regenerative conditions or those who do not require tissue regeneration may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to groundbreaking therapies that allow humans to regenerate damaged or lost tissues.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding regeneration in model organisms, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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 2026-06-13 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.