A new method to improve bladder function using a special scaffold
Official title: A Biomechanocompatible Small Molecule Releasing Scaffold for Bladder Augmentation
Funded at Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago · NIH-11048585 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to help people with bladder problems by using a special scaffold that releases helpful molecules to grow new bladder tissue, aiming to improve bladder function without the risks of traditional surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | December 18, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $708,138 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK139139-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11048585 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from chronic bladder conditions that lead to urinary incontinence and potential renal failure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-pathologic bladder conditions or those who do not require bladder augmentation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel scaffold that releases small molecules to enhance bladder augmentation for patients with pathologic bladders. The approach aims to regenerate bladder tissue without the complications associated with traditional surgical methods, such as using bowel patches. By utilizing bone marrow stem/progenitor cells, the research seeks to overcome existing barriers in bladder tissue regeneration, including nerve regeneration and vascularization. Patients may benefit from improved bladder function and reduced complications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatments for bladder augmentation, improving quality of life for patients with bladder dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been attempts at bladder tissue regeneration, this specific approach using a biomechanocompatible scaffold is novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
-
Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sharma, Arun — Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Sharma, Arun
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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.