Using mechanical forces to improve cell reprogramming

Mechanopriming for cell engineering

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-11124064

This study is looking at how gently stretching cells can help turn them into brain cells, which could be really helpful for treating brain-related illnesses and understanding diseases better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11124064 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how applying mechanical forces to cells can enhance their ability to be reprogrammed into induced neuronal cells, which are important for regenerative medicine and disease modeling. The study focuses on understanding the biophysical factors that influence cell behavior, particularly how the deformation of the cell nucleus can promote changes in gene expression. By exploring these mechanisms, the research aims to improve the efficiency of converting somatic cells into functional neurons, which could have significant implications for treating neurological conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that could benefit from neuronal regeneration, such as Alzheimer's disease or spinal cord injuries.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neuronal function or those who do not have access to the necessary cellular samples may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective methods for generating neurons from patients' own cells, potentially improving treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using mechanical forces to influence cell behavior, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in cell reprogramming.

Where this research is happening

LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.