Regeneration of Human Tissue Research to Move Forward with $1.6 Million Gift

INDIANAPOLIS – Imagine swallowing a pill that could help heal a spinal injury or restore degenerating eyesight. Imagine applying a “smart bandage” to regenerate an amputated finger or the tissue of an unsightly wound, rather than undergoing reconstructive surgery.

Sounds like science fiction. But drugs like these could be closer to reality than you think, thanks to the research by scientists of the IU Center for Regenerative Biology and Medicine in the School of Science at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI).

The W. M. Keck Foundation has awarded the Center $1.6 million for research on regeneration that will help it and collaborators at the Institute for Genomic Biology at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign study fundamental questions about the mechanisms of regeneration in amphibians, which have extensive powers to regenerate many complex structures that humans cannot.

By studying amphibians, the Center is taking a unique approach to identify genes and proteins that either permit or inhibit regeneration of tissues. Researchers will engage in a combination of cell marking and grafting experiments, as well as genomic and proteomic analyses of molecular activity.

“Understanding the fundamental mechanisms by which regeneration is retained or lost in these animals will give deep insights into how we might regenerate non-regenerating human tissues,” says David L. Stocum, Director of the Center and Professor of Biology.

The ultimate significance of these insights lies in their potential to develop pharmaceutical therapies for spinal cord and limb injuries in humans that would improve quality of life and restore economic independence.

“This is basic research that precedes drug development,” Stocum continues. “Once the mechanisms of regeneration are known in molecular terms, the next step is to translate the discovery into therapies. That is, use those molecules that stimulate regeneration in frogs to do the same in human tissues that fail to regenerate.”

“Our researchers have joined forces with private companies and other universities, including scientists at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The support we have received from the Keck Foundation, along with prior funding from the Indiana 21st Century Research and Technology Fund, will enable the Center to make initial discoveries in genomics and proteomics that ultimately may be applied right to the patient’s bedside,” says Stocum.

The IU Center for Regenerative Biology and Medicine is a multidisciplinary center of excellence founded by the School of Science. The Center is engaged in research that seeks to understand the difference in gene activity that leads to tissue regeneration versus scar formation.

The School of Science at IUPUI offers innovative degree programs—from associate to Ph.D.— and research opportunities that prepare students with the scientific knowledge to evaluate new discoveries and to make informed decisions that benefit society. Students have many degree choices to match their academic, research and career goals, including programs in biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, computer and information science, forensic and investigative sciences, geology, environmental science, mathematics, physics and psychology.

Based in Los Angeles, the W.M. Keck Foundation was established in 1954 by the late W.M. Keck, founder of the Superior Oil Company. The Foundation’s grant making is focused primarily on pioneering efforts in the areas of medical research, science and engineering. The Foundation also maintains a Southern California Grant Program that provides support in the areas of civic and community services with a special emphasis on children. For more information, visit www.wmkeck.org.