A new plug to help heal perianal fistulas
Official title: A nanofiber-hydrogel composite plug for perianal fistula repair
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11035156 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $606,059 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135269-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035156 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with perianal fistulas, particularly those related to Crohn's disease.
✕Less likely to help
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.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mao, Hai-Quan — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Mao, Hai-Quan
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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.