Continued Clinical Development of a Novel Pleural and Tracheal Sealant
Funded at University of Vermont & St Agric College · NIH-11444064 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new adhesive patch made from seaweed-derived materials is being developed to seal lung air leaks and prevent complications after chest injuries or mechanical ventilation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Vermont & St Agric College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Burlington, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $450,096 |
| NIH project number | 1R33HL187258-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11444064 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with lung air leaks or bronchopleural fistula who may benefit from a sealant patch during or after chest tube management or surgery.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without air leaks or those not requiring a patch for lung repair may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project aims to move a promising sealant patch from early studies into later stages of development so it can be used for patients with air leaks in the lungs. The patch, made from methacrylated dopamine-conjugated methacrylated alginate, is designed to have adjustable stiffness and strong tissue sticking properties to close pleural leaks. Researchers have already tested safety and effectiveness in animal models and are now refining manufacturing, sterilization, and quality attributes to prepare for clinical use. The goal is to provide a safer, faster, and more durable option for repairing lung leaks, potentially reducing hospital stays and morbidity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients with pneumothorax or chronic lung leaks could have faster stabilization and fewer surgeries.
How similar studies have gone: Pre-clinical studies showed the patch can seal lung surfaces effectively in both small and large animal models.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Vermont & St Agric College
Burlington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weiss, Daniel J — University of Vermont & St Agric College
- Study coordinator: Weiss, Daniel J
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.