A new material to help rebuild soft tissues in the face

Biostimulatory nanofiber-hydrogel composite for soft tissue remodeling

['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11019800

This study is testing a new material made from tiny fibers and a gel that helps heal and rebuild soft tissue in the face after surgery, making it easier for your body to grow back healthy tissue and possibly reducing the number of surgeries you might need.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11019800 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a biostimulatory nanofiber-hydrogel composite that can restore soft tissue in craniofacial reconstructive surgery. The approach aims to create a solution that not only fills the tissue loss but also promotes natural tissue growth and remodeling over time. By using a combination of polyester nanofibers and hyaluronic acid, the material encourages the infiltration of host cells and improves the healing process. This innovative method seeks to reduce the need for multiple surgeries and improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with craniofacial soft tissue losses due to congenital conditions, trauma, or surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve soft tissue loss or those who are not candidates for reconstructive surgery may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and less invasive option for patients needing soft tissue reconstruction in the face.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using biomaterials for tissue engineering, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

BALTIMORE, 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.