Research.
Every peer-reviewed study on fascia in one place — graded for strength of evidence, summarised in plain language for clinicians, researchers, and curious readers.
We grade studies from A to 1A+++ using the Fascia Research Database rubric — 1A+++ is the strongest.
Researchers behind the studiesAnti-angiogenic effect of high doses of ascorbic acid
This laboratory study investigated how high doses of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) affect the formation of new blood vessels, a process called angiogenesis. Researchers exposed several types of human endothelial cells, incl…
Can cancer be reversed by engineering the tumor microenvironment?
In this perspective article, the author proposes a different way of looking at cancer. Instead of focusing solely on genetic mutations, he argues that the physical environment around a tumor, particularly the extracellu…
Hyaluronan (HA) Deposition Precedes and Promotes Leukocyte Recruitment in Intestinal Inflammation
Hyaluronan (HA) accumulation is common in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but whether it is a cause or an effect has been unclear. In this study using a mouse model and human tissue, researchers found that HA builds u…
Collagen fibrillogenesis: fibronectin, integrins, and minor collagens as organizers and nucleators
This 2008 review article explores how collagen fibrils, the main structural components of connective tissue, are formed. While collagen can self-assemble in a test tube, the process in living tissues is carefully manage…
Correlation Between Fluctuations in Human Ultra-weak Photon Emission and EEG Alpha Rhythm
This study investigated the relationship between ultra-weak photon emission (UPE) from the skin and brain activity measured via EEG. Researchers recorded light emission from the hand while simultaneously monitoring brai…
Diagnosis and management of adhesive capsulitis
This 2008 review discusses adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder, a disabling musculoskeletal condition. The authors cover the diagnosis and management of the condition, which can cause significant morbidit…
Simple geometry in complex organisms
This theoretical paper explores how simple geometric principles can explain the formation of complex biological structures. The author revisits ancient ideas about fundamental shapes, connecting them to modern concepts…
Fibronectin Unfolding Revisited: Modeling Cell Traction- Mediated Unfolding of the Tenth Type-III Repeat
Cells build the extracellular matrix by pulling on the protein fibronectin, causing it to assemble into fibrils. This study used computer simulations to investigate how this process works at a molecular level. Researche…
Tensegrity and Mechanotransduction
This article summarizes a lecture on how mechanical forces influence biological processes at the cellular level. The author describes mechanotransduction, the process by which cells convert physical forces into biochemi…
Fibroblast mechanics in three-dimensional collagen matrices
This summary describes the relationship between fibroblasts and collagen, the primary cells and protein of fascia, respectively. Fascia provides mechanical support for the body's tissues, and fibroblasts are responsible…
Three-Dimensional Mathematical Model for Deformation of Human Fasciae in Manual Therapy
Researchers developed a mathematical model to calculate the force required to deform human fascia during manual therapy. The model showed that very large forces, beyond the normal physiological range of a therapist, are…
Endothelial Cilia Are Fluid Shear Sensors That Regulate Calcium Signaling and Nitric Oxide Production Through Polycystin-1
This cell culture study investigated how the cells lining blood vessels sense the force of blood flow. Researchers found that tiny, hair-like structures called cilia act as mechanical sensors. These cilia rely on a prot…