Understanding how the human body develops using stem cells
Official title: Deconstructing human body plan development with stem cells
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11239257 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how our bodies develop by using special stem cells to create 3D models, which can help us learn more about how our body parts form and could lead to better treatments for developmental disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 4R00HD111689-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11239257 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with developmental disorders or conditions related to body structure abnormalities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed body structures and no history of developmental disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind human body development by using pluripotent stem cells to create three-dimensional models. These models help researchers understand how body structures, such as the body axis and limbs, form during early development. By examining cell sorting and other processes in these models, the research aims to uncover fundamental principles of human development that could inform regenerative medicine. Patients may benefit from insights gained into developmental disorders and potential therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to advancements in regenerative medicine and improved treatments for developmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using stem cells and 3D modeling to understand developmental processes, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Miao, Yuchuan — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Miao, Yuchuan
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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.