Understanding how zebrafish regenerate their fins
Official title: Revisiting Polycomb Repression in Appendage Regeneration
Funded at University of Oregon · NIH-10742697 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how adult zebrafish can regrow their fins after losing them, and it aims to understand how their special cells work to help them heal, which could one day help improve healing in humans too.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project start | August 10, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $405,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD109670-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10742697 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults with congenital abnormalities or those who have experienced amputations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-congenital conditions or those who do not have regenerative needs may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the remarkable ability of adult zebrafish to regenerate their amputated fins. By studying the transitions between differentiated and progenitor cell states, the researchers aim to uncover how these cells can proliferate and re-differentiate to restore lost tissue. The focus is on the role of chromatin dynamics and gene expression in regulating these processes, which could provide insights into enhancing regenerative capabilities in other species, including humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in regenerative medicine, potentially improving healing and regeneration in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding regeneration mechanisms in model organisms, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oregon
Eugene, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stankunas, Kryn — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: Stankunas, Kryn
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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.