Understanding how the gut's nerve system can heal itself using zebrafish.
Investigation of Enteric Nervous System Regeneration in Zebrafish Using a Cell Ablation System with Spatio-Temporal Control
This study is looking at how zebrafish can heal their gut nerves after injury, which could help us understand how to improve treatments for digestive issues in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10525953 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the ability of the enteric nervous system (ENS) to regenerate after injury, focusing on zebrafish as a model organism. The study aims to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms that facilitate this regeneration, which is crucial for restoring gut functions like digestion and motility. By using a cell ablation system with precise control, researchers will explore how zebrafish can recover from extensive ENS injuries, providing insights that could lead to new treatments for gastrointestinal disorders in humans.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from gastrointestinal disorders linked to enteric nervous system dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients with non-gastrointestinal related conditions or those whose symptoms are not linked to enteric nervous system issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that promote the regeneration of the enteric nervous system, improving the quality of life for patients with gastrointestinal disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that zebrafish possess remarkable regenerative capabilities, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into ENS regeneration.
Where this research is happening
East Lansing, United States
- Michigan State University — East Lansing, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ganz, Julia — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Ganz, Julia
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 below.