Understanding how songbirds regenerate and degenerate tissues
Official title: Mechanisms of cyclical degeneration and regeneration in an avian model system
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10933444 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how songbirds, like sparrows and canaries, can heal and regrow their tissues, which might help us understand how to improve healing in people too.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 22, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $397,251 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150562-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10933444 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with conditions that involve tissue degeneration or require regenerative therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-degenerative conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind tissue regeneration and degeneration in songbirds, specifically focusing on how these processes can restore normal function and behavior. By studying species like the Gambel’s white-crowned sparrow and domesticated canary, researchers aim to uncover how cells integrate into existing tissues and how growth is regulated to prevent overgrowth. The approach involves examining seasonal cycles of tissue change, which may provide insights into broader regenerative medicine applications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing tissue regeneration in humans, potentially improving recovery from injuries and degenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research on regenerative mechanisms in various animal models has shown promising results, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Larson, Tracy Alison — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Larson, Tracy Alison
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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.