A new plug to help heal perianal fistulas

A nanofiber-hydrogel composite plug for perianal fistula repair

['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11035156

This study is testing a new type of plug made from special materials to help heal perianal fistulas in people with Crohn's disease by using stem cells to boost the body's natural healing, and it's being tried out in animals first to see how well it works and if it's safe.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11035156 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a specialized plug made from a nanofiber-hydrogel composite designed to repair perianal fistulas, which are common complications in patients with Crohn's disease. The approach involves creating a biostimulatory device that promotes tissue healing by delivering adipose-derived stem cells and enhancing the body's natural healing processes. The researchers will test this plug in animal models that closely mimic the condition in humans to evaluate its effectiveness and safety.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with perianal fistulas, particularly those related to Crohn's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with perianal fistulas not related to Crohn's disease or those who have already undergone multiple unsuccessful treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve healing rates for patients suffering from perianal fistulas, leading to better quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using similar biocompatible materials for tissue repair, indicating potential for success in 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.