Understanding how to create functional liver and intestinal cells from other cell types
Official title: Decoding the Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Reprogramming to Functional Hepatic and Intestinal Cell Types
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11261401 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to turn skin cells into liver and intestinal cells to help improve treatments for liver and gut problems, so patients can potentially benefit from better cell therapies in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $566,790 |
| NIH project number | 7R01DK139580-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-11261401 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from liver or intestinal disorders who may benefit from innovative cell therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to liver or intestinal function may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the process of reprogramming somatic cells, such as skin fibroblasts, into functional liver and intestinal cells. By using specific transcription factors, the team aims to improve the efficiency and yield of this reprogramming process, which has significant implications for treating gastrointestinal and liver disorders. The study will explore the genetic regulatory mechanisms involved in successful cell conversion and identify ways to enhance the specification of these cells for clinical applications. Patients may benefit from advancements in cell therapy for conditions affecting the liver and intestines.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for patients with liver and gastrointestinal diseases by providing a reliable source of functional cells for treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in reprogramming cells for therapeutic purposes, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morris, Samantha Annette — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Morris, Samantha Annette
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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.