Understanding how spatial constraints affect cell behavior and tissue development
Official title: Uncover Spatial-Constraint Related Morphome Using Tissue-on-a-Chip Platform and Data-Driven Mathematical Modeling
Funded at Utah State University · NIH-10931393 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how cells grow and work together in tight spaces, like those in our bodies, using a special lab setup that mimics real-life conditions, and it aims to help us understand important processes that could lead to better treatments for various health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Utah State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Logan, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $356,267 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM143194-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10931393 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to cellular behavior and tissue development, particularly those affected by neurological or developmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable conditions that do not involve cellular or tissue development issues may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how cells behave and develop tissues under spatial constraints, such as those found in the human body. By using a tissue-on-a-chip platform combined with data-driven mathematical modeling, the study aims to replicate the complex environments that cells experience in vivo. This approach allows researchers to explore the interactions between genetic factors and the surrounding micro-environment, which are crucial for understanding processes like membrane blebbing and brain folding. Patients may benefit from insights gained into these fundamental biological processes, which could lead to improved treatments for related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of critical biological processes, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies for various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using tissue-on-a-chip technology is gaining traction, this specific integration of spatial constraints and data-driven modeling is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Utah State University
Logan, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Yu — Utah State University
- Study coordinator: Huang, Yu
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Advancing antiparasitic drugs for sheep, goats, and bison
A funding opportunity to develop new antiparasitic medicines for food-producing small ruminants like sheep and goats, addressing parasite resistance and limited approved options.
-
One-dose vaccine candidate for Kyasanur Forest disease (KFD) to protect people
A single-dose, live-attenuated chimeric vaccine is being developed to prevent Kyasanur Forest disease in people who may be exposed to the virus.
-
Hamster model to study hepatitis B virus infection
A researcher is creating a hamster-based model to study how hepatitis B virus infects and persists in the liver, with the goal of helping develop better treatments and cures.
-
Using social rhythm to help people with Parkinson’s talk more clearly
A small study will test whether matching someone else’s speech pace and style can help people with Parkinson’s disease speak more clearly in everyday conversations.
-
VR-SAFE: Virtual Reality Training to Help Healthcare Workers Prevent Violent Encounters
A new virtual reality training program helps healthcare workers learn skills to prevent violent encounters and stay safer on the job.
-
How bile and gut environment affect Shigella’s harmful tactics
A researcher is studying how the environment inside the gut, especially bile, changes how Shigella bacteria cause disease in people, which could lead to better treatments.
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.