Understanding Tissue Stiffness in Fibrosis
Pathological consequences of altered tissue mechanics in fibrosis
This research helps us understand how changes in tissue stiffness contribute to diseases like liver scarring (cirrhosis).
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11146755 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies' tissues, like the liver, can change their stiffness, and these changes can lead to diseases such as fibrosis. We are learning how the tiny fibers, cells, and forces within tissues work together to create this stiffness. By understanding these mechanics, we hope to discover new ways that diseases like cirrhosis develop. This knowledge could eventually lead to better ways to prevent or treat these conditions, demonstrating the real-world applicability of our findings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients living with or at risk for fibrotic diseases, particularly those affecting the liver, could potentially benefit from future treatments developed from this foundational research.
Not a fit: Patients without conditions involving altered tissue mechanics or fibrosis would likely not receive direct benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to understand, prevent, or treat diseases characterized by tissue scarring, such as liver cirrhosis.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon significant prior work in understanding tissue elasticity and mechanics, aiming to expand that knowledge to include viscous and plastic properties.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wells, Rebecca G — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Wells, Rebecca G
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.