Using sound waves to improve the growth of nerve cells from stem cells
Acoustic Tweezing Cytometry for Efficient Neural Differentiation
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-10906832
This study is exploring a new way to use sound waves to help turn special stem cells into motor neurons, which are important for muscle control, with the hope of improving treatments for conditions like ALS.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10906832 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a method called Acoustic Tweezing Cytometry to enhance the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) into motor neurons, which are crucial for muscle control. By applying specific sound wave techniques, the researchers aim to create optimal conditions that promote the efficient growth and maturation of these nerve cells. This approach could lead to better therapies for conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by providing a reliable source of functional motor neurons for research and potential treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) who are 21 years or older.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to motor neuron degeneration or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases by providing a more effective way to generate motor neurons from stem cells.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using biophysical cues for cell differentiation, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements in the field.
Where this research is happening
ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR — ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FU, JIANPING — UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR
- Study coordinator: FU, JIANPING
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: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Disease, Aran-Duchenne disease