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Decoding Functional Cell-Cell Communication to Uncover Cellular State Modulation, Tissue Homeostasis, and Disease Genetics

Award Number: DP5OD042638
ORGANIZATION: OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR, NIH
OPDIV: NIH
AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY
AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: SCIENTIFIC/HEALTH RESEARCH (INCLUDES SURVEYS)
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 02/05/2026
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 01/31/2031

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Decoding Functional Cell-Cell Communication to Uncover Cellular State Modulation, Tissue Homeostasis, and Disease Genetics - 7. PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT Although recent advancements in single cell and spatial transcriptomics have provided unprecedented resolution to study intercellular communication, there are currently still no comprehensive methods to fully decipher the complexity of truly functional cell-cell communication and to investigate its implications for human health and disease. The long-term goal is to reveal the complex networks of cell-cell communication to better understand their roles in maintaining tissue homeostasis, contributing to disease mechanisms, and ultimately guiding the development of novel therapeutic strategies. The overall objectives in this application are to 1) develop computational methods to systematically decipher functional cell-cell communication, and 2) investigate the regulatory roles of cell-cell communication in cellular states, tissue organization, and disease genetics. The rationale for this project is that while cell-cell communication is recognized as a fundamental aspect of tissue biology, its full complexity, especially in the context of disease, remains incompletely understood. By advancing computational methodologies and integrating multi-dimensional data, we can provide deeper insights into the mechanisms governing intercellular communication, which are crucial for both normal tissue function and disease progression. The central challenges will be addressed by pursuing three specific aims: 1) Develop innovative computational approaches to accurately define and categorize active cell- cell communication networks within tissues; 2) Systematically explore the impact of these communication networks on cellular states and tissue organization; and 3) Elucidate the functional contributions of cell-cell communication in the context of disease genetics. The research proposed in this application is innovative, in the applicant’s opinion, because it leverages cutting-edge computational and experimental techniques to integrate spatial and single-cell data, providing a multi-layered understanding of cell-cell communication. This approach allows for the creation of detailed communication maps and the identification of key regulators that could serve as targets for novel therapeutic interventions. This research is significant because it addresses a critical gap in our understanding of how cell-cell communication influences tissue function and disease systematically. By providing a comprehensive framework to study these communications, this project has the potential to transform our approach to understanding complex genetic diseases and to identify new therapeutic targets. Ultimately, such knowledge has the potential to offer new opportunities for the development of innovative therapies to treat genetic diseases, contributing to the broader field of precision medicine.


Issue Date FY	Funding FY	Legal Entity Name	Legal Entity Address	Legal Entity City	Legal Entity State	Legal Entity Zip Code	Legal Entity COUNTY	Legal Entity COUNTRY	Assistance Listing	Award Code	Budget Year	Action Date	Action Type	Action Amount

Issue Date FY: 2026 ( Subtotal = $487,500 )
2026	2026	WHITEHEAD INSTITUTE FOR BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH	455 MAIN ST	CAMBRIDGE	MA	02142	MIDDLESEX	USA	Trans-NIH Research Support	000	1	2/5/2026	NEW	$487,500
														Subtotal = $487,500

Grand Total All Awards = $487,500

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Decoding Functional Cell-Cell Communication to Uncover Cellular State Modulation, Tissue Homeostasis, and Disease Genetics

Award Number: DP5OD042638

ORGANIZATION: OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR, NIH

OPDIV: NIH

AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY

AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: SCIENTIFIC/HEALTH RESEARCH (INCLUDES SURVEYS)

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 02/05/2026

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 01/31/2031

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