Understanding how tissue layers shape organs
Official title: Decoding the Mechanical Interactions between Tissue Layers Sculping Organ Shape
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11169336 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how different layers of tissue work together to shape organs as they grow, using fruit flies to understand how genes and physical forces affect this process, which could help us learn more about organ problems like congenital heart defects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $114,800 |
| NIH project number | 3R00HD110675-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11169336 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital organ malformations or those at risk for such conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed organs and no history of congenital defects may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the mechanical interactions between different layers of tissue contribute to the proper shaping of organs during development. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to visualize and analyze the dynamics of tissue layers in real-time, focusing on how genetic signals influence these mechanical processes. The research utilizes the Drosophila midgut as a model to explore the relationship between gene expression and the physical forces that drive organ formation. Patients may benefit from insights gained about organ malformations, particularly in conditions like congenital heart defects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential treatments for organ malformations, reducing the incidence of birth defects.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding organ development through genetic and mechanical interactions, indicating a promising avenue for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mitchell, Noah Prentice — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Mitchell, Noah Prentice
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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.