Understanding the structure and formation of protective layers in cells
Illuminating apical extracellular matrix structure and biogenesis
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ · NIH-10654029
This study is looking at special structures that help protect and support cells in our body, and it aims to see how these structures change during growth and in diseases like cancer and fibrosis, using special imaging techniques to better understand their role in keeping us healthy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SANTA CRUZ, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10654029 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the apical extracellular matrices (aECMs), which are crucial for the protection and function of epithelial cells in the body. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to visualize and understand the 3D organization of these matrices at a molecular level, particularly how they change during development and in diseases like cancer and fibrosis. The researchers will create fluorescently tagged components of aECMs to observe their arrangement and dynamics in living organisms, providing insights into their role in health and disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to aECM dysfunction, including certain types of cancer and fibrotic diseases.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to aECM dysfunction or those who do not have epithelial tissue involvement may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating diseases associated with aECM dysfunction, such as cancer and fibrosis.
How similar studies have performed: While the study of aECMs is a growing field, the specific approach of using fluorescent tagging and super-resolution microscopy to analyze their structure in vivo is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
SANTA CRUZ, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ — SANTA CRUZ, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WARD, JORDAN DAVID — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ
- Study coordinator: WARD, JORDAN DAVID
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.
Conditions: Cancers, neoplasm/cancer, Disease